Key takeaways
- Auckland Council says general garden waste can't go in household rubbish bins.
- The council food scraps bin doesn't take weeds, lawn clippings or hedge trimmings.
- Your options are composting, a private garden waste bin, a drop-off site or having it taken away.
What you can't do
- Rubbish bin: Auckland Council says general garden waste can't go in household rubbish bins. Small amounts of pest plants can.
- Food scraps bin: the council's food scraps bin doesn't accept garden waste like weeds, lawn clippings or hedge trimmings.
Option 1: Compost or mulch it
Lawn clippings, leaves and soft prunings break down well in a compost bin or heap. Woody material breaks down faster if it's chipped first. Compost and mulch go back into the garden and save you buying them. Don't compost diseased material, like box with box blight, or weeds that have gone to seed.
Option 2: A private garden waste bin
Auckland Council doesn't collect general garden waste, so if you want a regular kerbside service you'll need to book a private garden waste collection. These suit gardens that produce a steady amount of clippings.
Option 3: Drop it off
Many transfer stations and community recycling centres accept green waste, and some charge a fee. Check what each site accepts and charges before you load up the trailer.
Option 4: Have it taken away
For a one-off clear out or a big pile, it's often easier to get someone in. When I do a job, taking the green waste away is included. I can also load and remove piles you've cleared yourself. See green waste removal.
Weeds and pest plants
Weeds that have gone to seed and pest plants can spread if they're composted or dumped. Bag them and dispose of them properly.