Beat the Bin challenge

Published on 13 August 2025

Overwhelmed at the thought of how to waste less food?

Love Food Hate Waste NZ has launched Beat the Bin, a free three-week digital challenge to help New Zealanders cut food waste and save money. 

With the average household throwing away 86kg of edible food annually – worth around $1,200 – the initiative offers practical, bite-sized actions delivered via weekly emails. 

“We don’t need perfection from everyone,” says Council’s Waste Minimisation Officer, Wendy Bertholet. 

“All we need is for millions of us to make a little bit of progress each. Beat the Bin is designed to make it easy, help us prevent $2.8 billion in waste, and dramatically reduce our impact on the planet. 

“Many people want to reduce food waste but don’t know where to start,” says Wendy. 

“Beat the Bin makes it easy to take that first step – or get back on track.” 

The online challenge provides simple tips and challenges focused on smarter storage, meal planning, and creative use of leftovers. 

Each week includes a ‘Quick Win’ (under 5 minutes) and a 'Waste Warrior' option for those ready to go further. 

The fully digital format allows people to engage at their own pace, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. 

Those who sign up in August go in the draw to win one of three $500 grocery vouchers, plus weekly spot prizes. 

Waste less, save more and join the challenge: 

Beat the Bin (lovefoodhatewaste.co.nz)