Your rates contribution helps protect Auckland’s precious native species, landscapes and ecosystems, while managing waste and caring for the environment so our region remains clean, healthy and thriving for future generations.
Protection from pests
From our iconic kauri forests to native birds, geckos and marine life, Auckland is home to hundreds of unique plants and wildlife species. But these treasured places and species face ongoing threats from introduced pests, weeds and diseases. That's why a portion of your rates is set aside to help us tackle this problem.
Thanks to funds collected through the Natural Environment Targeted Rate (NETR), we’ll continue delivering council and community-led programmes to protect and restore native ecosystems and threatened species throughout 2026/27.
This includes ongoing work to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease, protect our marine environments (including keeping invasive species out of the Hauraki Gulf Islands), and stronger management of plant diseases. We’ll also continue to monitor and manage existing and emerging threats such as caulerpa seaweed, myrtle rust and gold clams, and support mana whenua and community-led conservation and climate initiatives.
Managing and reducing waste
You probably know your rates help us to collect hundreds of thousands of rubbish, recycling and food scraps bins each week. But they also support programmes that help Aucklanders reduce waste, repair and reuse more, and keep valuable materials out of landfill.
In 2026/27, we'll continue expanding Auckland's network of resource recovery facilities, including Community Recycling Centres. These centres are a one-stop shop where people can recycle, repair or donate unwanted items, or pick up quality pre-loved goods. Not only do they keep items out of the landfill for longer, they’re great places to pick up a bargain.
Thanks to your rates, we're working to keep Auckland clean, green and beautiful for everyone to enjoy, now and into the future.
EXPLORE MORE:
See how the Natural Environment Targeted Rate is supporting Auckland’s environment.
Find a Community Recycling Centre near you.