How to dispose of mobile phones
Both Vodafone and Telecom offer mobile phone recycling schemes so disposing of old mobile phones, accessories and batteries is relatively simple.
Vodafone collection scheme
Mobiles or accessories, like batteries and chargers, that collectively weigh less than 25kg can be dropped off at any Vodafone retail store or sent FREEPOST to: Freepost, Vodafone Handset Recycling Programme, Private Bag 92222, Auckland Mail Centre.
Telecom collection scheme
Mobile phones and accessories can be disposed of in recycling bins at Telecom, Orb or Leading Edge stores. Telecom can also take back and recycle desk top phones.
Three things to remember before disposing of your mobile phone
- Ensure that your mobile is disconnected.
- Clear the phone's memory of contacts and other stored information.
- Remove your phone's SIM card if it has one. If you need assistance, contact your network provider.
Do something good with a mobile phone!
Starship Children’s Hospital are running a Mobile Phone Recycling Campaign to collect unwanted mobile phones and raise funds to provide essential equipment and services for Starship kids.
Any make and model of mobile phone will be accepted regardless of condition. To get involved simply pick up one of the ParcelPost™ Returns Freepost envelopes that can be found:
- in selected newspapers nationwide
- at ASB Bank branches
- at all Telecom stores
- at Barfoot & Thompson branches
- at The Warehouse or Warehouse Stationery stores
then package the phone and place it in a local post box.
Phones in working order are refurbished and exported to places such as Hong Kong, China or to Eastern Europe, while those beyond repair are recycled through the correct environmental channels.
Visit the website for more information.