Composting is one of the easiest ways to reduce household waste and return nutrients to the soil. In New Zealand, food scraps and garden waste make up a large portion of landfill content, producing methane when dumped.
This guide lists 100 items you can safely compost and 20 items to avoid, helping beginners and experienced composters alike.
Things You Can Compost
Fruits & Vegetables
- Apple cores, banana peels, carrot tops, citrus peel (moderation), tomato skins, lettuce leaves
Grains & Bread
- Rice, pasta, bread crusts, cereal, flour leftovers
Coffee & Tea
- Coffee grounds, coffee filters, tea leaves, tea bags (uncoated paper)
Meat & Dairy (Bokashi Safe Only)
- Small portions of cooked meat, cheese, milk, yoghurt – only in bokashi compost systems
Garden Waste
- Leaves, grass clippings, plant trimmings, shredded paper, cardboard
Other Organic Materials
- Eggshells, nutshells, hair, feathers, fruit pits (small), old herbs
Things You Shouldn’t Compost
Non-Organic or Harmful Materials
- Plastic, metal, glass, chemicals, paints, treated wood
Unsafe Organic Waste
- Pet waste (unless special system), diseased plants, large bones (traditional compost), oily or fatty food
Special Tips for NZ Composters
Winter composting: Fermentation and bokashi work indoors even in colder months. Soil burial may take longer.
Apartment composting: Bokashi bins and compact indoor composters are ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Composting in New Zealand
Can dog poop go in regular compost?
No, dog waste should not be added to standard backyard compost systems unless they reach consistently high temperatures capable of destroying pathogens. Most home compost piles do not maintain these temperatures, which means harmful bacteria or parasites may survive. Pet waste should only be processed in specialised systems designed for safe treatment.
Does bokashi kill parasites?
Bokashi composting uses fermentation to break down organic material and suppress many harmful organisms. While the process helps reduce pathogens, it does not guarantee complete sterilisation. For safety, fermented waste should be buried in soil and allowed to break down fully before coming into contact with garden areas.
Can composted dog waste be used on vegetables?
No, composted pet waste should not be used on edible crops. Even after processing, there is still a risk of contamination. It is safest to use composted pet waste only around ornamental plants, trees, or lawns.
What items should never go in a home compost bin?
Materials such as plastic, glass, metal, chemicals, and treated wood should never be composted. Certain organic materials like diseased plants, large bones, or oily foods can also cause problems in traditional compost systems. These items may attract pests, slow decomposition, or introduce contaminants.
How to Speed Up Composting
- Mix greens and browns in the correct ratio.
- Maintain moisture but avoid soggy piles.
- Aerate regularly or use bokashi for anaerobic pre-processing.
- Chop or shred larger items to accelerate decomposition.