According to Tyrewise, Aotearoa New Zealand’s first regulated product stewardship scheme for tyres has marked its first year of operation with nearly 4 million end-of-life tyres collected for recycling or repurposing, and more than 5,000 registered partners nationwide.

Since its launch on 1 September 2024, the scheme has surpassed its collection and processing targets. It aims to recycle and repurpose 80% of tyres by its fourth year and more than 90% by its sixth. “Tyrewise isn’t just New Zealand’s first regulated product stewardship scheme, it’s also the most successful product stewardship scheme in the country to date,” said Adele Rose, CEO of 3R Group, the scheme managers.

To strengthen domestic markets, Tyrewise recently invited expressions of interest for funding, receiving over 60 applications across research, development, and community initiatives. Chair of Auto Stewardship New Zealand, Mark Gilbert, emphasized the crucial role of registered partners — from importers and retailers to recyclers — in achieving these results.

The scheme operates through a nationwide collection and recycling system funded by a stewardship fee on all new tyres sold, replacing inconsistent disposal charges and closing gaps left by voluntary schemes. This ensures access to collection services across the country, with the public also able to dispose of up to five tyres free of charge at registered sites.

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