An Auckland e-scooter rider had a recent near miss with a rubbish truck side-loader, prompting a safety reminder from the council – who say there has been over 100 near-misses since the start of last year.
Auckland Council posted a video of the incident from June 4 in Kelston which showed the e-scooter rider moving along a footpath before the side-loader arms came down, almost causing a direct collision.
In the video, the rider ducked just in time to avoid the arms, but still came off the e-scooter.
The door of the truck then opens, and the rider appeared to give a quick thumbs-up before heading off again.
Along with the video, Auckland Council said: "Give waste trucks space to do their job — your safety depends on it."
"This near miss is a reminder to keep your distance when a waste truck is collecting waste.
"The truck's lifting arm can move quickly and unexpectedly, so never ride, walk or drive too close while it's operating."
An Auckland Council spokesperson confirmed to 1News the young man was OK and had avoided being hurt.
'Happening far too often'
Auckland Council senior waste solutions waste operations safety specialist Lyndon Collie said people trying to pass the truck on the footpath while it's operating are "putting themselves in harms way".
"Near-misses are happening far too often."
Collie said while over 100 near-misses had been reported since January 2025, the true number was "likely much higher".
“We’re seeing too many people trying to squeeze past rubbish trucks, especially on scooters and bikes. When that arm comes down, it’s fast, heavy, and dangerous. If you see a truck operating, stay back, give it space, and never pass between the truck and the kerb.
"A few seconds of patience can prevent a serious injury."
Safety tips
The council asked riders to stay well clear of the truck's hydraulic arm, and "if you see flashing lights, keep your distance". The arm has a flashing orange warning light, which signals the equipment is in use.
"Slow down, wait, or use another route rather than trying to squeeze past. Never place yourself between the truck and a bin. This is a high-risk zone where the arm is actively operating."
For road riders, the council asked those who are riding on the road to never pass between the truck and the kerb. Instead, riders should always pass on the outside, or right-hand side of the truck, "as clearly indicated by signage on the back".
According to New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, e-scooters are able to be used on the footpath, but must be ridden in a careful and respectful manner, and "slow down when you're near people".
It added it is be illegal to ride at a speed which is dangerous to people.
"Always give way to other people on the path – you might have to stop completely or get off your e-scooter if it’s busy.
"Be aware of who’s around you – people move in ways you might not expect and they may not know you’re there."
A helmet is not legally required when using an e-scooter, but NZTA said it is "recommended".
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