Accepted Materials
At Sims Metal, recycling is something we do together. Every piece of metal you bring in helps keep our communities clean, supports local jobs, and transforms scrap into resources for tomorrow.
WHAT WE RECYCLE
Ferrous Metal
General steel
Cast iron
Construction scrap
General steel
Factory equipment
Heavy machinery
Metal-based appliances
Metal roofing
Pipe
Reinforcing bar
Steel wheels
Tin roofs and fences
Tools
Various other metals
Non-Ferrous Metal
Aluminium
Brass
Bronze
Catalytic converters
Chrome
Compressors
Copper
Data center equipment
Insulated electrical cables
Lead
Lead acid batteries
Motors
Nickel
Radiators
Stainless steel
Tin
Titanium
Transformers
Tungsten
Zinc
Various other metals
Prohibited Materials
We care about the safety of our team, visitors, and community, so all materials brought to our sites must be free of anything harmful to people or the environment.
Some items that look like metal may contain restricted substances, and to protect everyone, we may need to refuse materials suspected of containing prohibited components. Below are the items we cannot accept:
Air Bags
CFC Freon + Other Ozone Depleting Gases
Corrosives
CRTs
Explosives
Flammables
Fluorescent Lights
Hazardous Liquids
Lithium-ion + Other Rechargeable Batteries
Non-Metallics
Oil Filters
PCBs
Pesticides
Pressure Vessels
Radioactive Materials
METAL RECYCLING FAQs
Where can I find a Sims Metal recycling yard?
Sims Metal operates 9 metal recycling yards across New Zealand. Click here to find a local yard.
What identification is needed when I arrive at a Sims Metal recycling yard?
A valid photo ID is required to be paid for your scrap metal. Acceptable forms of ID include a current driver licence, passport, or other government-issued photo identification.
What items does Sims Metal accept?
Click here to view our full list of accepted items.
What items are prohibited?
The most common items that are turned away include lithium-ion batteries or pressurised containers (gas bottles, propane, aerosol, or extinguishers), hazardous, corrosive, explosive or radioactive items. Click here to view our prohibited materials.
Is there an appointment necessary?
No appointment is necessary. Click here to find the hours of operation for your nearest Sims Metal recycling facility.
Do you accept appliances?
We welcome homeowners to bring their old appliances to one of our recycling facilities. We accept the following appliances:
- Washing machines
- Dryers
- Dishwashers
- Refrigerators
- Freezers – commercial and residential
- Air conditioners
- Air handlers
- Heat pumps
- Water heaters
Do you accept vehicles?
Most Sims Metal locations accept vehicles for recycling. Upon arrival, all vehicles must be free of oils, fuels and any hazardous substances. We accept running and non-running cars, vans, and trucks. To sell a vehicle, you will need proof of ownership or registration. An online search will be done to verify that the vehicle is not stolen.
If you drive your vehicle to our facility to sell, remember to make arrangements for a ride to get home. We are unable to offer transport to individuals.
Will you pick up my scrap metal?
If you have large volumes of metals, we may be able to arrange to have the material picked up. Click here to fill out a form and provide pictures of the material and we will contact you.
What payment options do you provide?
Sims Metal has a number of payment options to suit everyone’s individual needs. This includes cash payments, checks, electronic transfers, or for certain customers instant transfer of funds using mobile banking.
How do you weigh material?
We weigh material using certified scales and weighbridges. In some cases, we can also supply an onsite weighing facility which can come to you. Speak to one of our friendly team members to find out more.
Do you take batteries? If so, what kind?
We purchase all types of lead-acid batteries (normally 12v or 24v car or truck batteries). We don’t purchase lithium-ion or rechargeable batteries; these are a prohibited item and can be extremely dangerous, so they are strictly forbidden.
Do I need to deregister my vehicle before bringing it in?
Yes. Please call us if you need further information on this.
Do you recycle tyres?
Unfortunately, we don’t recycle tyres.
Do you take gas bottles?
We do under strict conditions. They must be empty, have the valve removed, and have a punctured hole. These can be extremely dangerous to our people.
Our Locations
Find your nearest scrap metal yard