How To Recycle Caps & Lids

Recently I was rather surprised to learn that plastic and metal caps and lids are no longer accepted in kerbside recycling across New Zealand. With thousands of tonnes of recyclable material now heading to landfill each year, this is frustrating for households trying to do the right thing.

The good news is there’s now a practical solution, with a new collection programme making it possible to recycle these small but significant items again.

The Caps and Lids Recycling Scheme, operated by the Packaging Forum, is rolling out collection boxes in selected supermarkets across Auckland, Tauranga, and Christchurch, with more regions to follow.

The goal is simple but important - to divert as many caps and lids as possible from landfill and return them into the circular economy so they can be turned into new products. It’s a positive step forward while we work toward better long-term recycling systems, and a reminder that small actions at home can still make a meaningful difference.

For more information on the Scheme and for drop off locations, visit. https://capslids.recycling.kiwi.nz

Current locations include:

Auckland: New World Birkenhead, New World Albany, New World Hobsonville, New World Waiuku, New World Stonefield; PAK’nSAVE Mt Albert, PAK’nSAVE Royal Oak; Four Square Mangawhai Heads

Tauranga: PAK’nSAVE Tauriko, New World Mt Maunganui, New World Gate Pa, New World Brookfield

Christchurch: New World Prestons, New World Bishopdale, New World Wigram, New World Ilam

*Additional locations will be available on the website www.capslids.recycling.kiwi.nz