The Auckland ratepayers’ Alliance has today launched a campaign calling for Auckland Council to scrap its $36 million food scrap bin programme.

“Last week it came to light what many already suspected; the numbers behind the food scrap bin programme don’t actually add up” said Sam Warren, a spokesman for the Auckland Ratepayers’ Alliance.

“It’s the sort of virtue-signalling that leads to stupid, expensive decisions that Aucklanders end up having to pay for. We’re calling on the Mayor to lead the fight for sensible spending of ratepayer money.”

“Only one third of Aucklanders use the bins, while everyone pays for them. There isn’t an opt-out option, even for those already composting their organic waste.”

“Whether you’re the greenest of the greens, or most frugal of ratepayers—all sides can agree the best thing would be for council to end the charade. Planting trees or buying carbon credits would be better for the environment, and our back pockets."

“Other councils like Whanganui have recently pulled out of implementing their own scheme because they’ve cottoned onto the fact that it’s just one big expensive mess.”

“We understand plans were put in place for the scheme well before the Mayor was elected. As someone who stands strong on no-nonsense politics, we hope for his support in this fight.”

“We’re encouraging all Aucklanders to use our email tool to send Mayor Wayne Brown a clear message, asking for a better, greener use of hard-earned ratepayer money.”

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