For some people, collecting things grows out of control. Their homes become cluttered, often causing a fire or health hazard. They cannot get rid of things that most people see as rubbish.

This is called hoarding, and it can affect people's mental health, whānau and friendships.

There are services and resources that can help.

Resources focus on helping people who suffer from compulsive hoarding to make changes in their homes and routines, rather than blaming or “curing” them.