Dispose of unwanted household batteries safely through Council's battery recycling scheme.

Batteries contain numerous components that are bad for the environment. If put in wheelie bins, batteries can potentially harm staff and members of the public.

Batteries deteriorate if not in use and can become hazardous. Collecting batteries before they deteriorate means they can be recycled appropriately, saving valuable components for reuse and reducing the risk to people and the environment.

Which batteries can be dropped off?

Batteries that can be dropped off for free include: 

  • Batteries from household devices:
    • AA, AAA, C, and D cell batteries
    • alkaline cell
    • lithium
    • 9-volt
    • Cr123 camera batteries
    • dry cell and zinc
    • Li-ion batteries (from laptops, cameras, cell phones and tools)
    • NiCd
    • NiMH
    • gel cell
  • Loose batteries. 
  • Most damaged, leaking or rusty batteries, however, we cannot accept modified batteries. 
  • Removable mobile phone batteries. If your old mobile phone doesn’t have a removable battery, drop the phone off at a Vodafone, Spark or 2Degrees retailer and it will be recycled through the Re:mobile scheme(external link) or at an EcoDrop Recycling Centre. 
  • Car batteries can be dropped off at any EcoDrop Recycling Centre.

What happens to the batteries once dropped off?

E-Cycle collects the batteries from each location. As there are no viable recycling options in New Zealand, batteries are sorted and prepared for shipping overseas to be recycled. 

The separated components of the batteries are given a new life in a variety of industries.

Where can I drop batteries off?

Loose batteries can be put in a drop-off box at your nearest EcoDrop or at a participating retail store.

Christchurch locations:

Canterbury locations: