New Zealand has implemented updated recycling regulations as part of a nationwide initiative to standardise recycling services across the country by 2027. Although these rules have been in effect for a couple of years, many residents still require clarification on the specifics. This guide outlines what these changes mean for households, details the acceptable and unacceptable items for kerbside bins, and explains how proper recycling contributes to a more sustainable environment.
2024 recycling rules: what’s changed in NZ?
The updated recycling rules in NZ stipulate that only plastics numbered 1, 2, and 5, alongside glass, paper, and metal cans, are accepted in kerbside recycling bins. These changes, which took effect on February 1st 2024, aim to streamline recycling and improve efficiency across all councils. The following sections outline the key details:
Why these new recycling rules matter for NZ
These regulations were updated to minimise contamination and ensure that only materials capable of being processed within NZ enter the recycling stream. By restricting acceptable plastics to numbers 1, 2, and 5, the initiative achieves the following:
- Reduce contamination in recycling
- Keep unrecyclable items out of the system
- Send less waste to landfill
This is a straightforward adjustment that yields a significant positive impact on the environment.
What you can put in your kerbside recycling bin now
Acceptable Plastics
Only plastics numbered 1, 2, and 5 are accepted in kerbside recycling bins. If the recycling symbol does not display one of these numbers, the item must be disposed of in the general waste.
- Plastic #1: fruit and vege punnets, soft drink and water bottles, peanut butter and mayonnaise containers
- Plastic #2: milk bottles, juice bottles, shampoo and cleaning bottles
- Plastic #5: takeaway containers, plastic cutlery, 2L ice cream and large yoghurt containers
These specific plastics are more efficiently processed and recycled into new products compared to other variants.
Glass, Paper, and Metals
Alongside these plastics, you can continue to recycle:
- Glass bottles and jars
- Paper and cardboard
- Aluminium and steel tins and cans
Some councils may provide separate bins specifically for glass. Therefore, residents should consult their local council guidelines to ensure full compliance.
What you cannot put in your kerbside recycling bin under the new rules
Items No Longer Accepted
Certain items are strictly prohibited from kerbside recycling bins under the new regulations, including:
- Aerosol cans: Take these to your local Transfer Station or metal recycler.
- Liquid paperboard (Tetra Pak, milk, and juice cartons): Drop these at a Community Recycling Centre or put them in your rubbish.
- Small items (under 50mm x 50mm): These get lost in sorting, so put them in the rubbish.
- Lids: Remove all lids and put them in your rubbish bin.
Other Non-Recyclable Plastics
The following plastics are no longer accepted in your recycling bin:
| Plastic Type | Examples |
| #3 (PVC) | Clear food trays, large containers with handles, some battery and electronics packaging |
| #4 (LDPE) | Some meat trays, single-use plastic bags, bubble wrap, plastic wrap |
| #6 (PS/EPS) | 6-pack yoghurt pottles, some meat trays, foam cups, protective packaging |
| #7 (Other) | Baby bottles, CDs, plastic toys, some food and electronics packaging |
These regulatory changes mean that a greater volume of items will require disposal in general waste or through specialised facilities. For households requiring additional waste capacity, hiring one of our Pink Bins provides an effective solution.
Items Prohibited from Kerbside Recycling
The following items have consistently been prohibited from kerbside recycling bins:
- Food waste
- Textiles, carpets, and clothes
- Nappies, medical waste, and garden waste
- Soft plastic and plastic bags
- Bagged recycling and rubbish
- Lithium-ion batteries and appliances
It is imperative to exclude these materials from recycling bins to prevent contamination. Residents unsure of the guidelines are encouraged to take a test to verify their knowledge.
Food scrap bins and how they fit into the new rules
Food scrap bins are being implemented across NZ to divert food waste out of landfills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Where provided by the local council, these bins should be utilised for all food scraps in place of general waste bins. Additionally, home composting serves as an excellent method to further minimise household waste.
Tips to keep up with the new recycling rules
Check the Numbers
Always verify the recycling symbol on plastic items. Only plastics designated with numbers 1, 2, or 5 are permitted in the recycling bin, while all other numbers must be disposed of in general waste.
Separate Your Waste
Sort glass, paper, and metals as your council recommends. Follow local rules for each material.
Remove Lids
Remove lids from all bottles and jars before recycling.
Use Food Scrap Bins
Use food scrap bins for all food waste to keep it out of landfill.
Stay informed about your local recycling rules
Because individual councils may operate with slight procedural variations, residents should consult their local council’s website for the most current information. Adhering to these updated regulations directly contributes to a cleaner environment and supports nationwide sustainability efforts.
Frequently asked questions about the new recycling rules in NZ
What are the new bin rules and are more changes coming?
The updated regulations standardise kerbside recycling across NZ, restricting acceptable items to plastics 1, 2, and 5, alongside glass, paper, and metal. The overarching objective is to achieve full alignment across all councils by 2027, meaning residents should anticipate minor local updates approaching that deadline.
What are 5 common items that cannot be recycled at kerbside?
It is crucial to exclude soft plastics, aerosols, liquid paperboard (such as Tetra Paks), polystyrene, and any plastics numbered 3, 4, 6, or 7 from kerbside recycling bins.
Can yoghurt and other leftovers go in food scrap bins?
Yes. If the local council provides a food scrap bin, it is generally acceptable to include dairy, meat bones, and leftover food scraps. However, these items must strictly be kept out of standard recycling bins.
What should I do with items that are not accepted in kerbside recycling?
For items prohibited from kerbside recycling, alternative disposal methods are required. Soft plastics can be deposited at participating supermarkets, while aerosols and Tetra Paks should be taken to a local transfer station. For larger volumes of waste, hiring a skip bin is a highly effective solution.
Do the new recycling rules apply the same way in every NZ council area?
The fundamental regulations regarding plastics, glass, paper, and metal are now standardised across NZ. However, collection methods, such as whether glass requires a separate bin, may still vary. Residents are advised to consult their local council website for specific collection details.