Where are you based? 

Our company is based in Auckland and Nelson. For all Community Air projects, we recruit a local Co-Ordinator based in your community. The Co-Ordinator may be a volunteer or employed by a partner organisation, depending on the nature of the project. 

How do I receive an air monitor? 

In most cases our local Co-Ordinator will arrange a time with you to deliver the monitor in person. This allows them to ensure that it can be installed and connected to Wi-Fi correctly. In some cases the Co-Ordinator may arrange to deliver the monitors to you so you can install and connect yourself. 

 What happens at the end of the monitoring period? 

We usually lend the monitors for around 2 weeks. At the end of that period your local Co-Ordinator will contact you to arrange to remove and collect your monitors, which will often be booked out to another home within a day or two. Soon after we will email you with a summary of your results and some further helpful information. This may include advice on improving air quality, or further opportunities to investigate or improve air quality, 

 What make and model of air monitors do you use? 

For most projects we use monitors manufactured by Air Gradient. For indoor monitoring we use their “One” model, and for outdoor monitoring we use either their “Open Air” model or their “Open Air Max” model. These models deliver high quality, reliability and simplicity at an affordable cost. 

 Are there any costs involved in hosting a monitor? 

There are always costs, but those costs may be covered by a third party. During winter 2026, all participation costs in Community Air (Oamaru in June and Wanaka and Hawea in July and August) are covered by Otago Regional Council making participation completely free for householders. 

Do the monitors need to connect to my Wi-Fi? 

Currently, yes. However, on occasion we may have alternative monitors available that connect via the mobile phone network and do not need to connect to Wi-Fi. 

 Are you selling air monitors? 

Not at the present time, although we may consider that as an option in the future. At the moment, we loan monitors to project participants for a fixed period of time. The cost of the loan is covered by the project funder, which is usually the Regional Council. For those interested in purchasing monitors we may be able to sell some of our stock at certain times or make recommendations on purchases from other providers. 

 How does The Air Quality Collective cover its costs? 

To date, most Community Air projects have been funded by Regional Councils. We are always interested in exploring alternative business models. Our services may be funded through certain charitable or philanthropic funds or simply purchased on a commercial basis. 

 How do you use the data collected? 

We provide an analysis of your data to help you understand air quality at your place, and how you might be able to maintain or improve it. We then summarise this data for all participating homes, whilst anonymising the data so that it cannot be linked to your name, address or contact details. We present this summary learning of air quality in your community to the funding body (who may publish a report), and to the community as a whole through public meetings and social media. 

 Do you sell on any data to third parties? 

No.