Aucklanders now have 10 more places to safely recycle household batteries, thanks to a new battery recycling pilot at selected Woolworths New Zealand stores across the region.
The pilot, a partnership between Woolworths New Zealand, battery recycling specialist Ecobatt and Auckland Council, aims to make battery recycling easier and more accessible while helping keep batteries out of household rubbish and recycling bins.
The new battery recycling kiosks are located near the entrances of participating stores, making it easy to drop off unwanted batteries while doing the weekly shop. The batteries are then safely collected and recycled by specialist operators.
Why is this important?
In the last three years, Auckland Council has recorded 58 rubbish and recycling truck fires, with many linked to batteries and battery-powered items being disposed of incorrectly.
Auckland Council General Manager Waste Solutions Justine Haves says batteries are one of the leading causes of these fires, with the problem increasing as Aucklanders use more battery-powered devices such as phones and laptops, power tools, and toys.
“When batteries are placed in household rubbish or recycling bins, they can be crushed or damaged during collection and processing, causing them to overheat and ignite,” Ms Haves says.
“These fires put waste collection crews, recycling facility staff, emergency responders and the public at risk. They also damage vehicles and infrastructure, disrupt local roads and services, and release harmful contaminants into the environment.”
Most recently, a recycling truck fire at Snells Beach prompted another reminder about the dangers of putting batteries and other hazardous items into household bins.
Where can I recycle batteries?
Battery recycling kiosks are currently available at these participating Woolworths stores:
- Silverdale
- Takapuna
- Grey Lynn
- Auckland Central (Quay Street)
- Lincoln Road
- Waiata Shores
- Manurewa
- Auckland Airport
- Highland Park
- Beachlands
If these locations aren't convenient, batteries can also be dropped off at selected Bunnings and Mitre 10 stores for free, as well as many community recycling centres across Auckland (a small fee may apply). For a list of locations, visit the Auckland Council website.
Tips for safe battery recycling and disposal
- Before taking batteries for recycling.
- Never put batteries in your rubbish or recycling bin.
- Store used batteries somewhere cool and dry.
- Cover battery terminals with clear tape.
- Keep damaged, swollen or leaking batteries separate from other batteries and take them to a specialist battery recycling drop-off point.