We’re launching a battery recycling initiative to help reduce the number of used batteries ending up in our landfill.

When batteries are disposed of incorrectly, their metals can react with rainwater, releasing toxic substances that contaminate the soil and water.

Corroded batteries pose a serious environmental risk. As batteries contain valuable and finite resources, recycling them not only prevents pollution but also enables the recovery and reuse of important materials.

FAQ's

Why are batteries a hazard for kerbside collection trucks?

When your general rubbish or recycling is collected, any hidden used batteries are likely to be squashed, compacted, punctured, shredded, or soaked in liquids. This can cause certain types of batteries to overheat or catch fire. These fires put lives at risk, cause millions of dollars in damage, and disrupt essential waste collection services.

Who is paying for the new battery recycling service?

Waitomo District Council is funding this service using money received from the Waste Disposal Levy. This levy, collected by central government, is partially distributed to local councils to support waste management and minimisation initiatives.

By using these funds, we’re able to provide a free battery recycling service to our community—ensuring batteries are disposed of safely, reducing environmental harm, and supporting responsible waste practices.

Battery types we will accept

• Mixed batteries
• Alkaline - primary (single use)
• Button cell batteries
• Lead acid batteries (ULAB)
• Lithium batteries - primary (single use)
• Li-Ion batteries - secondary (rechargeable)
• Nickel Cadmium (NiCd)
• Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
• Sodium Nickel Chloride (NaNiCl2)
• Rechargeable batteries

Is this free recycling service just for household batteries?

Yes, but there are a few exceptions:

Vape batteries

Te Kūiti Landfill does not accept vape batteries.
However, many vape shops will take them back—so check with your retailer for safe disposal options.

Car batteries

Te Kuiti landfill does accept car batteries; however, they are not part of this programme. So, there will be a cost associated with taking your batteries here.

But the good news is, there are providers in town who will accept car batteries free of charge! A quick search or phone call should point you in the right direction.

Check out Repco's battery recycling initiative HERE 

What happens to the collected batteries?

The batteries collected through our service are carefully handled by Phoenix Recycling Group, a New Zealand-based company that specialises in the sustainable recycling of over 20 types of domestic, commercial, and industrial batteries. 

They are shipped under hazardous waste permits to approved recycling facilities overseas.

At these specialised facilities batteries are safely broken down, valuable components are recovered for reuse, and hazardous materials are properly disposed of - helping to minimise environmental impact. 

Where do the recycled batteries go?

Most of New Zealand’s mixed waste batteries are exported to the Republic of Korea, where they are processed at approved recycling plants.

Business or bulk batteries disposal

If you're a business or have a bulk quantity of batteries to recycle, please contact our Waste Manager:
📞 0800 787 0800.
📧 [email protected] (Subject line: Bulk Battery Recycling)

Want to know more about how batteries are recycled?

👉 Click HERE to learn more from Phoenix Recycling

Phoenix Battery Recycling Process