Michael, 9, Half Moon Bay

I’m in Year 5 at a green gold enviro school.

When did you start composting?

When I was 3 and going to Pigeon Mountain Kindergarten, I got involved in their worm farm and was soon in charge of feeding the worms. I was also interested in their waste and recycling.

Why do you do it? 

I hate to see lots of rubbish bags out on the kerb. I have got 3 neighbours to give me their food waste to compost to divert it going to landfill. I then supply them with worm tea and instruct them on how to dilute it and use it on their plants. I run my own (non-profit) business called Mickey Bins. I am waiting for Auckland Council to bring out the new food caddy bins so that everyone can compost and reduce landfill.

What do you love about it?

I share this interest with my Nanna and we like to attend the Compost Collective meetings to get new ideas. I like that I am able to teach others how to compost.

The Compost Collective runs free composting workshops all across Auckland. Participants get a $40 discount voucher to use on a compost system that suits them.