Recycling soft plastic is something you can do—and it’s easier than you might think!
Our Soft Plastic Recycling Scheme website is your go-to resource for everything you need to know about recycling not just plastic bags and plastic wrap, but also grocery bags, bubble wrap, and more.
Here’s How to Get Started:
- Collect: Gather all the soft plastic packaging you use at home.
- Prepare: Make sure everything is clean, empty, and dry.
- Recycle: Drop your items into a soft plastics recycling bin. Look out for the distinctive green and white bins at supermarkets and participating stores.
Many brands are now featuring our soft plastic “Recycle at Store” logo on their packaging, making it even easier to spot what can be recycled. With the scheme now integrated into the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) system, you’ll see this helpful label appearing more and more across New Zealand.
Simply bring your used soft plastics back to stores such as Countdown, The Warehouse, New World, Pak’nSave, and other selected locations. Even better, New Zealand now processes post-consumer soft plastics locally—at facilities like Future Post in Waiuku and Blenheim, and SaveBoard in Hamilton—showcasing true Kiwi ingenuity by turning waste into valuable resources.
Find your nearest drop-off point using our store locator and join us in making recycling a part of your everyday routine. Every little bit helps in reducing waste and protecting our environment!
Important Reminders:
- No compostable packaging: Even if labeled recyclable and compostable, these items are not accepted.
- No rigid plastic containers: Items like yoghurt pots cannot be recycled with soft plastics.
- Preparation: Always ensure your packaging is clean, dry, and empty.
- Poster: Download our “Recycle Soft Plastic” poster for additional tips.
Let’s work together to create a cleaner, greener New Zealand!