First Hand - Running the Rubbish

Composed of one-off episodes, each by a different director, First Hand was an opportunity for up-and-coming filmmakers to try their hand at making documentaries. This instalment from director Alan Erson looks at ‘dusties’ — the men who collect Auckland’s rubbish. Their rewards and career pathways are considered, alongside the hard physical nature of the work. Just as important is what happens during time off. There are visits to local pub The Bellbird, and the café where they stop for cups of tea — plus sucker for punishment Manu heads to rugby league training.

Look at this, take a shot of this! That's dangerous mate! That's bullshit there!

– A dustie with a cut finger points out sharp objects protruding from a rubbish bag

Key Cast & Crew

Paul Gittins

Narrator

Alan Erson

Director, Camera

Richard Thomas

Producer

George Andrews

Producer

Mark Cathie

Production team

Paul Newell

Production team