Reflecting on 2025 Achievements

As 2025 winds down, I want to say a huge thank you for everything you and your teams have done this year. It’s been another tough operating environment for many, but also a year where our industry has shown real grit, innovation and leadership.

Across the sector we’ve seen members step up on some of the hardest challenges in front of us. We relaunched the Operation Clean Sweep NZ programme with a stronger audit and support model, and it’s been great to see the number of sites already putting their hands up to demonstrate best practice in pellet, flake and powder containment.

We also released two major Waste Minimisation Fund–supported reports on EPS product stewardship and construction & demolition plastics – a big piece of groundwork to turn those “hard-to-recycle” streams into practical recovery and recycling pathways.

Our members rolled up their sleeves during Operation Clean Up Week, with teams out across the country clearing rubbish from streets, industrial areas, parks and coastlines – proving once again that this industry doesn’t just talk about the environment, it gets out there and looks after it.

Recycling Week 2025 put a spotlight on circular solutions already in play, including PPL Plastic Solutions’ work on reusable coils and pallet wrap – a great example of how smart design and reuse can cut waste, save money and keep materials in the loop for longer.

On top of that, our 79th Annual Conference in Auckland brought more than 150 delegates together around the theme of Innovation & Resilience – a reminder that even in uncertain times, this sector continues to adapt, collaborate and push for better outcomes.

Through all of this, Plastics NZ has been working alongside you: advocating on key policy issues, progressing circular-economy initiatives, supporting training and skills, and helping connect members with practical tools, partners and ideas. None of it happens without your engagement and willingness to lean in.

As we head into the holiday season, I hope you get the chance to step away from the day-to-day, enjoy time with friends and whānau, and recharge properly. Our team will also be taking a break to rest, read something that isn’t a consultation document, and (try to) avoid talking about plastics and recycling at every barbeque.

Our office will be closed from Friday, 19 December 2025, and will reopen on Monday, 19 January 2026. We’ll be back then, ready to keep supporting you and to make the most of the opportunities 2026 will bring.

Wishing you and your families a safe, relaxing and joyful holiday season. Thank you for everything you do for our industry – I’m looking forward to what we’ll achieve together next year.

Warmest regards and Meri Kirihimete,

Rachel Barker (CEO)
and the Plastics NZ Team

Plastics New Zealand will be closed for the Holiday Season from Friday 19th December 2025 and will re-open on Monday 19th January 2026.