- By Damian Light, Howick Local Board chairperson
We’re aware of the issues with illegal dumping which is especially bad in Flat Bush.
It’s awful seeing our neighbourhoods used as dump sites and we encourage everyone to log anything left on public land for removal and investigation – phone 0800 663 867 anytime, 24/7.
Rubbish and enforcement are regional responsibilities, so the Howick Local Board doesn’t have direct control over them. Regardless, we’re working hard to get more action.
We’re advocating for more local waste options
We’ve been advocating for a local recovery centre, including hazardous waste disposal.
These have been successfully delivered across the city and we desperately need one in East Auckland. We’ve also asked the mayor and councillors to improve compliance, with more resources to enforce the rules.
We’re educating our future generations
We’re proud to support the EnviroSchools programme which enables local schools and childcare centres to reduce their waste. Last year local schools and centres diverted over 18 tonnes of waste from landfill through reusing, recycling and reducing rubbish coming into their sites.
Meanwhile, our local stream restoration and volunteer programmes provide practical, guided opportunities to do something positive in our local environment.
We’re funding Construction Waste Enforcement and Leadership
There’s a lot of development happening in the area, especially in Flat Bush.
We fund a specialist to proactively visit building sites in Flat Bush and engage with builders to promote good site practices, especially sediment control and waste containment.
Serious issues are reported through to the compliance team for enforcement and prosecution. They visited over 700 sites in the 12 months to June, 2024, with more under way as we continue the programme. This funding also supports cameras to help capture offenders of illegal dumping.
These are in addition to our significant investment into our other environmental programmes delivering pest control, pollution prevention, and community volunteers.
Find out more and stay in touch
Website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/howick
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HowickLB
Monthly eNewsletter: https://bit.ly/42kdAlK
