Our mahi – zerowaste

Our mahi

Welcome to our mahi - where zero waste thinking meets action. Explore the projects, grassroots initiatives and advocacy driving systems change towards a resourceful Aotearoa.

System change

Achieving zero waste requires deep, structural transformation. Dive in to see how we work to get to zero waste, change the rules and change the economics to build a zero waste future.

Grass roots action

Zero waste is a living, breathing movement and a way of life. It connects our daily actions to global change. Explore how this powerful idea has taken shape across Aotearoa and the world, bringing communities together to care for our resources, solve local problems, and build a more fulfilling, sustainable world.

Embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Zero Waste Aotearoa is dedicated to embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi within our governance, operations, and vision for a regenerative future. Explore our Statement of Intent to learn how we uphold tino rangatiratanga and weave Te Tiriti justice into the heart of the zero waste movement.

Container Deposit Return Scheme

We’re advocating for a well-designed Container Deposit Return Scheme in Aotearoa, which will make beverage producers more responsible for their packaging. Putting a small refundable deposit on drink bottles, cans and cartons, boosts recycling rates to 90%, reduces litter, cuts emissions, and creates local fundraising opportunities.

Regeneration Not Incineration

Waste-to-energy incineration is an unacceptable option for waste management. It is an expensive and dangerous form of waste disposal creating more problems than it solves.

The Regeneration Not Incineration Campaign is a national campaign led by Zero Waste Aotearoa. It specifically exists to oppose the building of mixed waste incinerators.

Training, Learning & Knowledge Sharing

Zero Waste Aotearoa offers learning opportunities that strengthen the capability of our network and the wider zero waste sector. Through training, webinars, workshops, and member networking, participants build knowledge, develop practical skills, and connect with others. Together, these events help grow a strong, connected, and empowered zero waste community.

Every Bite

He taonga ā tātou kai katoa | all food matters. This is a month-long facilitated programme, funded by the Ministry for the Environment, and administered locally by community groups. Participating households try simple changes to better understand and prevent food waste and save money. This also aims to grow a nationwide Food Appreciation Movement.

Whakahaumanu a Hineahuone Tiriti-dynamic composting

He whakaniko I te mauri o Hineahuone mā te mahi wairākau | Enhancing the mauri of Hineahuone through composting. This project is grounded in mātauranga Māori and community-led action. It supports small and medium-scale composting initiatives to make mauri-rich compost for local soil and food sovereignty initiatives.

Localised: our commercial arm

Localised is an accredited social enterprise and the commercial arm of Zero Waste Aotearoa. Localised forms joint ventures with local community organisations to support resource recovery.

Zero Waste Annual Hui

The hui is our annual gathering of members, innovators, allies and change-makers. It is a collaborative space to share practical, system-changing solutions, build collective leadership, and drive the national movement toward a just, thriving, and genuinely Zero Waste future.

Waste Wise

This is a partnership with Auckland Council’s Waste Wise team. It supports Community Waste Wise Partners to grow their skills, confidence and impact. The programme focuses on creating spaces for learning, collaboration and practical support through skill shares, mentoring and networking.

Getting to Zero

This monthly e-newsletter highlights inspiring, community-led waste minimisation and resource recovery action across Tāmaki Makarau. With support from Auckland Council’s Waste Wise team, it shares stories, ideas and practical examples.