A custom to TREASURE

Nothing makes Jeremy happier than a bit of trash-talking with the family

- JEREMY CORBETT

Without being too Auckland-centric, I'd like to write about one of the major attractions of the City of Sails. An attraction I believe should be introduced nationwide for the good of the country, its people and its jetsam.

I'm talking, of course, about the inorganic collection.

The excitement begins with the invitation: a mid-year email that always brightens a cold, dark, winter's day. One of the few emails from the council that lifts the spirits instead of lowering the bank balance.

"We're in!" we shout.

Then the confirmation! The whole family gathers around as the appointment is logged in the calendar. At this stage, only the week. Auckland City Council knows how to tease an event it drip-feeds the details.

We only find out the exact day a week before pick up.