Organisations as diverse and significant as Woolworths, Foodstuffs NZ, Coca Cola, BP, The Warehouse, The University of Auckland, the NZ Beverage Council, the Zero Waste Network and 24 councils, spanning from the Far North to Dunedin, have signed the request and offered to help the Government set up a successful scheme.

“It’s great to see retailers, drink producers, councils, recyclers and community organisations coming together to ask the government to start a Container Return Scheme in New Zealand,” said Zero Waste Network spokesperson Sue Coutts. 

“We have a common interest in increasing recycling rates and reducing litter and pollution.”

Benefits of a container return scheme

The 84 signatories are asking the Government to prioritise a Container Return Scheme, because they’re proven to increase recycling rates, create new jobs and provide fundraising mechanisms for community groups and the charity sector. 

A Container Return Scheme aligns with the government’s waste objectives and climate goals. It’s supported by more than 78% of New Zealanders. (Reloop 2022)

“A 2023 survey showed that 89% New Zealanders like the idea of a Container Return Scheme (Kantar, 2023). Paying a small deposit (like 20c) when you buy a drink, that you get back when you drop off the empty bottle or can makes sense to people.” said Sue Coutts.

“Communities, schools, clubs and charities could use the scheme to raise funds for sports gear, local projects, school trips and other activities. I know a lot of organisations who’d love to be able to do that.

“2.6 billion drink bottles, cans and cartons get sold in New Zealand each year. Less than half of these are collected for recycling, but overseas Container Return Schemes achieve 90% recycling rates.

“We know from the international evidence that Container Return Schemes work. A well-designed scheme would double the return rate for drink bottles and cans from 45% to 90%. 

“These schemes are working well in 32 countries around the world, from Canada to Europe. It’s time for New Zealand to set up a Container Return Scheme, so we can create good jobs in the recycling industry and in our regions and feel proud of our clean green reputation.”

For more 

A copy of the full letter to the Minister can be seen here, including the logos of the 84 organisations that support a scheme being introduced by the government.

Radio NZ – Push for recycling scheme re-emerges, with broad support for bottle deposit | RNZ News

Grey Power backed the call for a nationwide container return scheme. Find out more in this article in the Federation’s magazine Nov 2025 https://greypowermag.co.nz/lifestyle/nz-bottle-scheme-urged/