Uber and the New Zealand Red Cross are teaming up once again for the third annual Uber x Red Cross Clothing Drive.

New research commissioned by Uber has found that, for many Kiwis, it now takes around six weeks before they have time to donate their clothing – a significant increase from the typical two-week wait time in 2023 and 2024.

To turn this unused clothing into meaningful donations, the partnership allows Kiwis to book free donation pick-up through both the Uber and Uber Eats apps across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

For people, for change

Talei Kitchingman, director of retail at New Zealand Red Cross, says: “Every quality item donated goes on to help us raise funds to support people in need across New Zealand – from emergency response, to refugee resettlement, to community programmes.

“And as part of the global Red Cross Movement, your donation also supports relief efforts internationally. When Kiwis donate their best quality clothes that they no longer wear, those donations go further than just filling racks in our Red Cross Shops – they help us raise more, waste less and support more people in need.”

The research also shows a gap between concern and action: 63% of buyers worry about fast fashion waste, yet 43% never buy pre-loved clothing. Younger Kiwis are driving change, with over two-thirds of 18–24-year-olds buying second-hand each year, compared to just 44% of those aged 55 and over.

Donations made easy

Emma Foley, managing director of Uber ANZ, says the Uber x Red Cross Clothing Drive is about breaking down barriers to donating while also helping communities who are supported from the purchases made from Red Cross Shops.

“From the research it’s clear that Kiwis want to donate, with a quarter (25%) donating clothes annually, but many are getting stuck at the final step. By making donating free, simple and convenient through Uber and Uber Eats, we’re empowering Kiwis to clear out their wardrobes and donate their best quality clothing directly to Red Cross.”

Last year’s Clothing Drive saw more than 42,000 kilograms of quality clothing donated, with 3,500 free Uber Courier trips recorded throughout the day. Stand-out donations included a fully tailored suit worn by New Zealand fashion icon Colin Mathura-Jeffree.

For more information visit Uber.com/redcross