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What do I need to do before throwing away old tech?
Our devices store so much personal information about us. So when it’s time to throw them away, how can we make sure they’re wiped clean?
Windows 10 support is due to expire in October and devices past this “best-before date” will not receive any fixes for new security issues.
Wayne Angus,… View moreOur devices store so much personal information about us. So when it’s time to throw them away, how can we make sure they’re wiped clean?
Windows 10 support is due to expire in October and devices past this “best-before date” will not receive any fixes for new security issues.
Wayne Angus, country manager for IT asset lifecycle management company Greenbox, says this poses “a potential ticking time bomb”, with an estimated 240 million PCs globally no longer able to be used securely after October.
He describes e-waste as “one of New Zealand's most underappreciated security environmental threats”, with Kiwis producing an estimated 80 million kilograms annually.
People underestimate the cyber security risk associated with how they dispose of their old phones and laptops
Greenbox country manager Wayne Angus says people underestimate the cyber security risk associated with how they dispose of their old phones and laptops.
Urban Miners salvaging electronic waste from landfill
“The major challenge is around the data and the security of data because the cyber hackers and the underbelly out there in the world are very, very clever at extracting information and data from disposed of devices,” Angus told Nine to Noon.
For those replacing their old tech or people simply wanting an upgrade, there are some key factors to consider before getting rid of your device.
Can people access my files if I’ve deleted them or factory reset?
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AUT department of computer and information sciences head Minh Nguyen says think of files like books.
“All [a factory reset] does is just clear off all the data of username, password, and the table, but all your books are still there. The book is only labelled ‘deleted’, but the written text inside the book is still there.”
Some Apple and Android phones automatically ‘encrypt’ data. This means a ‘key’ acts as a password, so your data cannot be read without it, he says. Performing a factory reset on these phones deletes that encryption key.
Using the ‘quick format’ tool on laptops and PCs also leaves behind traces, Nguyen says. That’s why the ‘full format’ option is slower, he says, it works by opening every page in that book and removing all traces.
“However, still, if you think about it in real life, they still leave some marks. People with some [high-level] tools, they still can recover whatever you deleted by the eraser. So even full format, sometimes it's not 100 percent safe.”
How far do you really need to go?
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Physically destroying CDs may be your best bet, Nguyen says. But for things like laptops, high-level software is available for deep data erasure on devices if there's sensitive information.123RF
If you’ve got super important data, you could go to a certified IT asset disposal company which will take your device back to the bare bones, Angus says.
“[Cyber criminals will] spend hours fiddling through a hard drive just to try and find that one bit of information that they might be able to use to get access to your corporate database or get into your network through a password.”
Alternatively, you could follow the guide from e-waste service TechCollect on how to use this high-level software. But Nguyen says if you haven’t stored sensitive data on your device, you could resort to the steps below.
“[Doing a data erasure] might take a few hours to wipe off one, and most people might not bother to do that.”
The steps you can take
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The National Cyber Security Centre recommends starting with backing up your files to a Cloud service or a storage device.
Smartphones / tablets: Nguyen says encrypt your data (you can usually find the steps on your manufacturer’s website), sign out of all your accounts, perform a factory reset (instructions should also be on your manufacturer’s website), and remove any SIM or SD card. “Whatever data left inside the phone is encrypted, and it's very, very difficult to decrypt.”
Smartwatch: Firstly, unpair it from your phone, perform a factory reset then remove any SIM card. “It should be safe because once you unpair from your phone then you don't have much data left. After you [do a] factory reset, I think it goes to the brand new condition.”
Gaming consoles / smart TVs: Log out and perform a factory reset. Don’t forget to remove any USB or SD cards plugged in.
Laptops / PCs: Encrypt the hard drive disk and do a full format (which you can find the tool for by searching in your settings). You can then physically remove the hard drive as an extra security measure. Nguyen notes most people are saving data on to their Cloud storage, so that’s where the increasing security risk is. Similarly, performing a full format on a USB or external hard drive removes data more than just deleting.
Modem: Modems store your password and some DNS and VPN settings. Nguyen recommends starting with a factory reset. There’s usually a tiny hole which you can press using a pin or paper clip for about 10 to 30 seconds to do this. This will reset your password and admin username to the default (both ‘admin’). Access the admin page by going to ‘192.168.1.1’ on your web browser. Login using the default admin username and password and “just change the admin password to be whatever you don't even remember”.
The back of a modem with two wires plugged in.
Modems have internal memory storages that holds data on your Wi-Fi, IP address and admin username and password.Unsplash / Stephen Phillips
DVDs / CDs / SIM cards: It’s best to physically destroy these by cutting or breaking them, Nguyen says.
Cameras: Perform a factory reset and format the internal hard drive along with the external SD card.
Don't leave old devices lying around
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Lithium-ion batteries also have an end of life. If left inside devices, they can swell and become a fire risk, Angus says.
“If you've got a device like a phone or a laptop, and you notice that the back of the device where the battery is hidden away on the inside is starting to bulge, then you've got a real risk and you need to make sure that you get that dealt with properly.”
What are my options for disposal?
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Check your local council for more information about e-waste collection services in your area.
TechCollect is a free service that offers e-waste drop-off collection points across the country for households and small businesses. They encourage people with working devices to contact the Recycle A Device programme – a not-for-profit organisation who collect and refurbish old laptops and tablets which are then given to people who need them.
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15 Years of GrabOne... Here’s $15 Just for You!
For 15 years, GrabOne has helped Kiwis save on everything from local experiences to relaxing getaways around New Zealand and beyond. With over 500,000 customers since 2010, we’re proud to have brought families, friends, and communities closer through fun things to do and places to explore.
To … View moreFor 15 years, GrabOne has helped Kiwis save on everything from local experiences to relaxing getaways around New Zealand and beyond. With over 500,000 customers since 2010, we’re proud to have brought families, friends, and communities closer through fun things to do and places to explore.
To celebrate this milestone, we’re giving Neighbourly readers $15 off their next purchase on the GrabOne website. Minimum spend $75.
Discover limited daily deals, flash sales with unbeatable prices, and activities in your own backyard. Plus, keep an eye out for 15 special giveaways happening across our social pages this month.
Thanks for supporting GrabOne over the years. Here’s to even more great experiences to come!
Valid till 31st August 2025 use code NEIGHBOURLY at checkout.
bradfords Armchair for sale
Treck Swivel Leather Armchair. Bought from bradfords and not much used. Down size the house hence to sell. Pick up is from Mt Eden.
Lynfield Quiz Afternoon- register today!
If you'd like to come along and mix with Lynfield folks for a fun afternoon quiz, text 0224221234 to register today! Secure a spot - random seating you don't need to bring a team, just $10 cash for entry and some extra for raffle tickets. Proceeds after costs are towards the annual … View moreIf you'd like to come along and mix with Lynfield folks for a fun afternoon quiz, text 0224221234 to register today! Secure a spot - random seating you don't need to bring a team, just $10 cash for entry and some extra for raffle tickets. Proceeds after costs are towards the annual Lynfield Community Day. Our thanks to Puketapapa Local Board for seed funding this event.
Poll: As an island nation, are we doing enough to protect our oceans?
The island nation of New Zealand claims guardianship over a vast ocean territory. In fact, our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) spans 15 times our land area. Despite this, less than 1% of our ocean is highly protected.
Sheridan Waitai, member of One Oceania, argues that New Zealand is failing its … View moreThe island nation of New Zealand claims guardianship over a vast ocean territory. In fact, our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) spans 15 times our land area. Despite this, less than 1% of our ocean is highly protected.
Sheridan Waitai, member of One Oceania, argues that New Zealand is failing its obligations, and our failure is being noticed internationally.
Sheridan and others argue that the health of our oceans is declining as they face climate change, overfishing, and pollution. While other nations are championing ocean protection, New Zealand has been quiet on this topic.
We want to know: Are we meeting our responsibilities in the management of our blue territory?
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66.5% No - we can do more.
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5% Yes - we are meeting our obligations.
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25.6% It is a global problem, not just ours.
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2.6% Maybe. I dont really have an opinion.
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0.2% Other - share below!
Demand for assisted dying is on the rise – should we be worried?
The statistics: The latest annual report by the Assisted Dying Registrar, published last week, showed the number of active applications for assisted dying rose by 20% in the past year. That statistic alarmed advocacy group Voice for Life, which noted the increase was occurring at a time when the … View moreThe statistics: The latest annual report by the Assisted Dying Registrar, published last week, showed the number of active applications for assisted dying rose by 20% in the past year. That statistic alarmed advocacy group Voice for Life, which noted the increase was occurring at a time when the workforce involved in the Assisted Dying Service was shrinking.
The analysis: New Zealand’s assisted dying regime is still relatively young and cases were always predicted to rise gradually each year before stabilising, meaning year-on-year increases are to be expected at this stage. Assisted deaths made up 1.25% of all deaths in NZ over the same period, which is in line with Ministry of Health predictions. In countries where assisted dying is more established, assisted deaths typically make up around 2% of all deaths.
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Bright Spots is back - and it's better!
We're looking for your most colourful photos! Resene ColorShops and Neighbourly have teamed up again this winter to bring you Bright Spots, a celebration of the colourful spaces and places in your life.
But this year it's a little different!
This year we're calling on … View moreWe're looking for your most colourful photos! Resene ColorShops and Neighbourly have teamed up again this winter to bring you Bright Spots, a celebration of the colourful spaces and places in your life.
But this year it's a little different!
This year we're calling on Neighbourly members to share photos wherever there's a bright spot that brings you joy - whether it's in the office, at your home or when you're out and about in your neighbourhood. If it brings a smile to your face we'd love to see it.
Share a photo that brings a little colour to your day and you could win one of ten prize packages valued at $500 (including a $250 Prezzy® card and a $250 Resene gift card).
Granny Flat to rent
House located on a FULL section. Independent entrance and privacy. Granny flat to rent self contained with kitchen, bathroom and toilet and 1 additional room, in Lynfield Auckland (Next to countdown). Quiet neighborhood. Unit is fully paneled and very clean. $ 270/ per week plus internet and power … View moreHouse located on a FULL section. Independent entrance and privacy. Granny flat to rent self contained with kitchen, bathroom and toilet and 1 additional room, in Lynfield Auckland (Next to countdown). Quiet neighborhood. Unit is fully paneled and very clean. $ 270/ per week plus internet and power sharing. Suit a couple. Or a single person. Or 2 people
Washing machine is brand new
Toilet and bathroom is just renovated
2 weeks advance rent adjustable and 2 weeks bond with Tenancy Services. Close to 25L bus stop to the city and 191 to New Lynn. Handy to countdown Lynfield and Lynfield Tennis and YMCA Lynfield. No Time wasters please.
No pets.
Ancestor Intelligence: Using AI for Family History with Fiona Brooker
Auckland Family History Expo
Join us on Friday 8 August to Sunday 10 August 2025 at the Fickling Convention Centre , 546 Mt Albert Rd, Three Kings, Auckland
PRE-EXPO AI WORKSHOP
• Friday 8 August 1pm-4pm: Pre-Expo AI Workshop $40 per person - Ancestors Intelligence - Using AI for Family … View moreAuckland Family History Expo
Join us on Friday 8 August to Sunday 10 August 2025 at the Fickling Convention Centre , 546 Mt Albert Rd, Three Kings, Auckland
PRE-EXPO AI WORKSHOP
• Friday 8 August 1pm-4pm: Pre-Expo AI Workshop $40 per person - Ancestors Intelligence - Using AI for Family History with Fiona Brooker
Discover how artificial intelligence can support your family history research. In this hands-on session with genealogist Fiona Brooker, learn how to use AI tools to analyse documents, organise your research, and turn your findings into compelling family stories. Bring your laptop along.
BOOK NOW. Limited spaces
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Choice News Tuesday: Kākāpō will be getting busy in 2026!
The kākāpō, our famously lovable but critically endangered land-parrot, are forecast to have a massive breeding season in 2026 - perhaps the biggest on record!
How do we know? Kākāpō only 'get busy' during rimu mast events (where rimu grow heaps of fruit), every 2-4 years. … View moreThe kākāpō, our famously lovable but critically endangered land-parrot, are forecast to have a massive breeding season in 2026 - perhaps the biggest on record!
How do we know? Kākāpō only 'get busy' during rimu mast events (where rimu grow heaps of fruit), every 2-4 years. Because we can anticipate rimu mast events, and kākāpō love rimu fruit, we can predict kākāpō breeding activity.
Since there are only 242 kākāpō today, this bumper season is important.
This positive outlook on population numbers is especially exciting since, due to the mahi of conservationists, the kākāpō have completed their first season on the North island (at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari). The booming of the kākāpō has not been heard on the North Island of Aotearoa for over a century!
Read more about Aotearoa's flightless parrot and their nesting plans.
We hope this news brings a smile!
From tea towels to TV remotes: Everyday bacterial hotspots – and how to clean them
Bacteria are lurking on your sponge, your pet’s toys and your tea towels. Here’s what the research says - and how to protect yourself.
From your phone to your sponge, your toothbrush to your trolley handle, invisible armies of bacteria are lurking on the everyday objects you touch the most. … View moreBacteria are lurking on your sponge, your pet’s toys and your tea towels. Here’s what the research says - and how to protect yourself.
From your phone to your sponge, your toothbrush to your trolley handle, invisible armies of bacteria are lurking on the everyday objects you touch the most. Most of these microbes are harmless – some even helpful – but under the right conditions, a few can make you seriously ill.
But here’s the catch: some of the dirtiest items in your life are the ones you might least expect.
Here are some of the hidden bacteria magnets in your daily routine, and how simple hygiene tweaks can protect you from infection.
Shopping trolley handles
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Shopping trolleys are handled by dozens of people each day, yet they’re rarely sanitised. That makes the handles a prime spot for germs, particularly the kind that spread illness.
One study in the US found that more than 70 percent of shopping carts were contaminated with coliform bacteria, a group that includes strains like E. coli, often linked to faecal contamination. Another study found Klebsiella pneumoniae, Citrobacter freundii and Pseudomonas species on trolleys.
Protect yourself: Always sanitise trolley handles before use, especially since you’ll probably be handling food, your phone or touching your face.
Kitchen sponges
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That sponge by your sink? It could be one of the dirtiest items in your home. Sponges are porous, damp and often come into contact with food: ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive.
After just two weeks, a sponge can harbour millions of bacteria, including coliforms linked to faecal contamination, according to the NSF Household Germ Study and research on faecal coliforms.
Protect yourself: Disinfect your sponge weekly by microwaving it, soaking it in vinegar, or running it through the dishwasher. Replace it if it smells – even after cleaning. Use different sponges for different tasks (for example, one for dishes, another for cleaning up after raw meat).
Chopping boards
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Chopping boards can trap bacteria in grooves left by knife cuts. Salmonella and E. coli can survive for hours on dry surfaces and pose a risk if boards aren’t cleaned properly.
Protect yourself: Use separate boards for raw meat and vegetables. Wash thoroughly with hot, soapy water, rinse well and dry completely. Replace boards that develop deep grooves.
Tea towels
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Reusable kitchen towels quickly become germ magnets. You use them to dry hands, wipe surfaces and clean up spills – often without washing them often enough.
Research shows that E. coli and salmonella can live on cloth towels for hours.
Protect yourself: Use paper towels when possible, or separate cloth towels for different jobs. Wash towels regularly in hot water with bleach or disinfectant.
Mobile phones
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Phones go everywhere with us – including bathrooms – and we touch them constantly. Their warmth and frequent handling make them ideal for bacterial contamination.
Research shows phones can carry harmful bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus.
Protect yourself: Avoid using your phone in bathrooms and wash your hands often. Clean it with a slightly damp microfibre cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or direct sprays.
Toothbrushes near toilets
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Flushing a toilet releases a plume of microscopic droplets, which can land on nearby toothbrushes. A study found that toothbrushes stored in bathrooms can harbour E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and other microbes.
Protect yourself: Store your toothbrush as far from the toilet as possible. Rinse it after each use, let it air-dry upright and replace it every three months – or sooner if worn.
Bathmats
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Cloth bathmats absorb water after every shower, creating a warm, damp environment where bacteria and fungi can thrive.
Protect yourself: Hang your bathmat to dry after each use and wash it weekly in hot water. For a more hygienic option, consider switching to a wooden mat or a bath stone: a mat made from diatomaceous earth, which dries quickly and reduces microbial growth by eliminating lingering moisture.
Pet towels and toys
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A bird's eye view of a dog playing with several toys.
Pet towels and toys stay damp and come into contact with saliva, fur, urine and outdoor bacteria. According to the US national public health agency, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pet toys can harbour E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Protect your pet (and yourself): Wash pet towels weekly with hot water and pet-safe detergent. Let toys air dry or use a dryer. Replace worn or damaged toys regularly.
Shared nail and beauty tools
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Nail clippers, cuticle pushers and other grooming tools can spread harmful bacteria if they’re not properly cleaned. Contaminants may include Staphylococcus aureus – including MRSA, a strain resistant to antibiotics – Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the bacteria behind green nail syndrome, and Mycobacterium fortuitum, linked to skin infections from pedicures and footbaths.
Protect yourself: Bring your own tools to salons or ask how theirs are sterilised. Reputable salons will gladly explain their hygiene practices.
Airport security trays
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Airport security check. Young man holding passport and waiting for x-ray control his luggage.
After being screened by security, wash your hands or use sanitiser.123RF
Airport trays are handled by hundreds of people daily – and rarely cleaned. Research has found high levels of bacteria, including E. coli.
Protect yourself: After security, wash your hands or use sanitiser, especially before eating or touching your face.
Hotel TV remotes
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Studies show hotel remote controls can be dirtier than toilet seats. They’re touched by many hands and rarely sanitised.
Common bacteria include E. coli, enterococcus and Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, according to research.
Protect yourself: Wipe the remote with antibacterial wipes when you arrive. Some travellers even put it in a plastic bag. Always wash your hands after using shared items.
Bacteria are everywhere, including on the items you use every day. You can’t avoid all germs, and most won’t make you sick. But with a few good habits, such as regular hand washing, cleaning and smart storage, you can help protect yourself and others.
It’s all in your hands.
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Thinking About Buying a Project Car? Start Your Journey Right
Restoring a classic or modern project car can be one of the most rewarding hobbies — but it also comes with its share of surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or just getting started, it pays to know what you're in for before making that first purchase. Our latest article, … View moreRestoring a classic or modern project car can be one of the most rewarding hobbies — but it also comes with its share of surprises. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or just getting started, it pays to know what you're in for before making that first purchase. Our latest article, What You Need to Know Before Buying a Project Car, walks you through essential tips to help you plan, budget, and make smart decisions from the outset.
From setting realistic expectations to organising your space and storage, this guide is packed with practical advice for anyone embarking on a restoration project. And when it comes time to safely store your project car, parts or tools, our Mt Roskill self storage facility offers clean, secure units to suit your needs. Visit the article to learn more — or get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help make room for your next big project.
www.kiwiselfstorage.co.nz...
Contact us for any storage needs.
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www.kiwiselfstorage.co.nz...
Call: 09 625 6161
Need Space For Whatever Reason?
We Make Storage Easy
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Village pooch Maggie provides pet therapy for fellow residents
Moving into William Sanders Village provided Graham and Karrin Byrnes with the perfect chance to give back to a community that was right on their doorstep, with beloved pet Maggie being the key to their success.
The couple heard about the St John therapy pets programme not long after moving into… View moreMoving into William Sanders Village provided Graham and Karrin Byrnes with the perfect chance to give back to a community that was right on their doorstep, with beloved pet Maggie being the key to their success.
The couple heard about the St John therapy pets programme not long after moving into Ryman Healthcare’s Devonport village in 2021, and now take Maggie to visit residents in the village care centre three times a week.
Click read more to read about Maggie's pawsome work.
Auckland Central Police Base formally opened
The Police front door is now open a lot closer to central Auckland residents and visitors.
Today, the public counter at the Auckland Central Police Base on Federal Street was officially opened by acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers and Minister of Police Mark Mitchell.
It’s the first stage … View moreThe Police front door is now open a lot closer to central Auckland residents and visitors.
Today, the public counter at the Auckland Central Police Base on Federal Street was officially opened by acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers and Minister of Police Mark Mitchell.
It’s the first stage of an expanded presence at 210 Federal Street after it was announced late last year that Police will take on full occupancy.
“It’s fantastic to be able to open our doors with a public facing presence back in the heart of central Auckland once again,” acting Deputy Commissioner: Northern Region, Jill Rogers says.
“We know that the public feel safer when they see our staff and our buildings.
“This has been something the community have been keen to see happen, and Police have been working hard at increasing our presence in recent years.”
The public counter opened for service at the beginning of the week and replaces the previous counters at College Hill.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Rogers says Police will be able to deploy with ease across busy areas of the CBD.
This includes Te Waihorotiu Station, which is expected to be the country’s busiest train station when it opens.”
“We have seen the benefits since our Beat team moved to the site more than two years ago,” acting Deputy Commissioner Rogers says.
“For example, foot patrols are up 91 per cent in the city from July 2024 to April 2025, on the previous period.
“It’s clear to us that an expanded Police presence will make our overall 24/7 response in the city more effective.”
Construction is ongoing at the site with fit out work being completed on other floors in the building.
Auckland City District Headquarters will remain based at its current location on College Hill.
NOTES AND NUMBERS
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• Police have occupied two floors of 210 Federal Street since 2020
• Police took over full occupancy in July 2025
• The Beat Team has done 4,770 hours of foot patrolling (July 2024 – April 2025)
• More than 50 staff form part of the Beat Team
Police in Auckland’s CBD
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• 2 September 2019 – Frontline and front counter staff move to the Auckland City Hub, on College Hill.
• November 2022 – Auckland Central Beat team moves into a re-purposed floor at 210 Federal Street
• 25 November 2024 – Police announce agreement to take full occupancy of 210 Federal Street
• 14 July 2025 – the new front counter at Auckland City Police Base opens for service.
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