E-Waste Recycling

Electronic waste (e-waste) is the fastest growing type of waste in the world. In Aotearoa New Zealand, we generate around 80,000 tonnes per year!

E-waste often contains dangerous metals and other substances that can be toxic to the environment and to human health if disposed of or handled inappropriately. Some may also contain valuable and scarce resources that should be recovered and recycled.

From 1 November 2021 items containing a battery, such as mobile phones, personal computers, etc. will not be accepted as refuse at the Waste Recovery Centre.

This is because refuse in the hoppers is crushed, which can damage batteries and lead to fires. Broken computer and mobile phone batteries are a leading cause of fires in both rubbish trucks and landfills. 

Free battery drop-off points

Don't bin batteries! Loose batteries can be dropped off free of charge for recycling at the Waste Recovery Centre and Nelson Environment Centre.

Learn more about our battery disposal service.

e-Waste recycling

Nelson City Council provides support to local e-waste recycler Nelson Environment Centre to reduce the cost of e-waste recycling for all Nelson residents and businesses. Nelson Environment Centre aims to recover/repair where possible, and ensure that the remaining items are responsibly recycled. Small charges apply for most items, to cover processing costs.

When dropping off your e-waste please make sure to speak to staff to find out where to leave your items, and pay any charges that apply. Do not leave your items without first getting the approval of staff to do so. 

Common e-waste items accepted by Nelson Environment Centre are listed below. If in doubt, give them a call before you visit. 

  • Household electronics - kitchen appliances, stereos, gaming consoles, DVD/VHS players, speakers, cables, mobile phones, microwaves, vacuum cleaners
  • TVs and computer monitors 
  • Personal computers, laptops, e-readers, modems, routers, UPS, keyboards, docking stations
  • Printers

Nelson Environment Centre
6 Vivian Place, Annesbrook.
Phone: 03 545 9176
info@nec.org.nz

E-waste drop-off available during opening hours:

  • 8.00am - 4.30pm Monday to Saturday
  • 10.00am - 4.30pm Sunday

Please contact the Nelson Environment Centre if you would like to arrange collection of your e-waste. Please note there is an additional cost for the collection service.

TechCollectNZ offer a free recycling service at Noel Leeming for a range of items including personal computers, tablets, printers, cameras and peripherals.

For more information on what can be recycled and where items are accepted go to techcollect.nz. These items are sent to Auckland to be recycled.

Free mobile phone recycling 

Mobile phones can be dropped off for recycling through the RE:mobile programme at a range of locations in the region. Money from recycling phones is donated to Sustainable Coastlines. To check out the full list of collection points go to drop-off locations