Copper is one of the most valuable and widely recycled metals in New Zealand. From the wiring in your home to the pipes under your sink, copper is everywhere, and when it comes time to recycle it, understanding scrap copper grades is the key to getting the best return. At Endless Metals, we make the process simple and transparent, with the most competitive rates and clear grading at our Onehunga and Wairau scrap yards.
In this article, we’ll break down the main types of copper scrap: #1, #2, domestic, bright & shiny and more, so you know exactly what you’re bringing in and how to maximise value.
Why Copper Recycling Matters
Copper is unique among metals because it can be recycled infinitely without losing quality. Every kilo of copper that’s recycled saves energy and reduces the need for environmentally damaging mining. In New Zealand, copper demand continues to grow in industries like construction, power generation, and telecommunications, making copper recycling in Auckland a vital part of the circular economy.
Whether you’re a homeowner clearing out old appliances or a tradie with offcuts from the job site, bringing your scrap copper to Endless keeps valuable material in circulation and ensures it’s processed in a safe, environmentally conscious way.
Learn more about our approach to sustainability on our Carbon Reduce and certifications page.
Understanding Scrap Copper Grades
When you arrive at Endless, your copper is assessed and categorised into grades. This grading system makes a big difference to the price you receive, as higher grades mean cleaner, purer copper. Let’s take a closer look at the main grades:
#1 Copper
This is a premium category. It includes bare, uncoated, and unalloyed pipe, free of solder, fittings, or contaminants. The copper must be at least 1.5mm thick and clean to qualify. Because of its purity, #1 copper commands the best market rate.
If you’re a tradie pulling out bare wiring or clean copper pipe, separating this material is worth the effort. Sell your copper scrap in Onehunga and Wairau today for top prices.
#2 Copper
#2 copper includes material that has some level of contamination, such as paint, solder, or corrosion. This grade typically covers:
- Painted or coated copper pipes
- Burnt wire or cables
- Heavily tarnished copper
While the payout for copper scrap #2 isn’t as high as #1, it still holds strong value and should never be thrown away. At Endless, our team makes grading clear and transparent, so you’ll always know why your copper falls into a particular category.
Domestic Copper
Domestic copper scrap is a mixed material that often includes brass fittings, welds, or other contaminants. Think old hot water cylinders, plumbing offcuts, or wires with attachments. Because domestic copper requires more processing, it is priced lower than #1 or #2 copper, but it still offers excellent returns when recycled in bulk.
This category is especially common for homeowners. If you’re replacing an old hot water cylinder, bring it to us for recycling. See our hot water cylinder recycling service for more details.
Bright & Shiny Copper
Also called “bare bright” copper, this copper wire is recognised for its striking bright appearance. This is the highest grade of scrap copper and the most valuable type you can bring into Endless. It refers to clean, uncoated, unalloyed copper wire that’s free from insulation, paint, or tarnish, usually larger than 1mm in diameter. Because of its purity, Bare Bright fetches the best copper scrap prices and is in high demand across the recycling industry. At Endless Metals, we encourage tradies, electricians, and households to keep this wire separate from other copper grades, as doing so guarantees the top payout.
Other Copper Grades
In addition to the main categories above, Endless also buys a wide range of copper-containing materials, such as:
- PVC-insulated copper cable, priced based on recovery percentage (30%, 42%, 65%)
- Copper car looms and data cables
- Copper radiators and ali copper radiators (copper-brass or aluminium-copper)
- A/C coils and mixed copper alloys
By knowing what you have, you can separate and present your material for faster service and better value. See our copper recycling page for a full list of what we accept.
Where to Sell Copper Scrap in NZ
If you’re wondering where to sell copper scrap in Auckland, Endless Metals has you covered. With two convenient yards, one in Onehunga (servicing Penrose, Mangere, and Otahuhu) and one in Wairau Valley (servicing Glenfield, Albany, and Northcote), we make it easy to drop off and get paid.
Copper Scrap Prices in Onehunga and Wairau
Copper prices fluctuate with the global market, so the rate you’ll receive can vary from week to week. At Endless, we stay aligned with international trading prices to ensure you always receive the most competitive rate.
If you reach out to us, we can provide instant pricing and then provide instant payouts through our weigh and pay system. For tradies, our Tradie Legends Loyalty Programme offers even sharper prices and exclusive rewards.
By recycling with us, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best copper scrap prices in Onehunga and reliable service on the Shore.
Benefits for Tradies, Businesses, and Homeowners
Tradies — Separating and recycling copper offcuts is a simple way to increase revenue. Clean, bare copper (#1) especially can add up quickly to boost your bottom line.
Businesses — Companies in plumbing, electrical, or demolition industries can streamline waste disposal and unlock extra income by setting aside copper scrap for regular drop-offs or bin collection.
Households — From old pipes to broken appliances, households can clear clutter while making responsible environmental choices. Domestic copper and mixed grades still hold strong value, making recycling worth your while.
The Endless Difference
At Endless, we combine competitive copper scrap prices with a focus on customer service and sustainability. With over 1,400 Google reviews and a 4.9-star average across both branches, we’ve built our reputation as New Zealand’s highest-rated scrap metal recycler.
We are also Toitū Carbon Reduce certified and active members of the Association of Metal Recyclers (AMR) and ReMA, demonstrating our commitment to a green and safe recycling industry.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the main scrap copper grades in New Zealand?
The most common scrap copper grades are #1 (bare bright, clean copper), #2 (painted, corroded, or soldered), and domestic (mixed copper with fittings or contaminants). Each grade is valued differently based on purity. You can read more about metal recycling standards on the Association of Metal Recyclers (AMR) website.
Why is it important to recycle copper responsibly?
Recycling copper reduces the need for environmentally damaging mining and ensures valuable materials stay in circulation. In New Zealand, copper recycling supports the circular economy and lowers carbon emissions. The Ministry for the Environment outlines why responsible recycling helps protect our environment and communities.
How do copper scrap prices change in New Zealand?
Copper scrap prices are influenced by global commodity markets, local demand, and the grade of the copper you’re recycling. Prices often shift weekly, making it important to check before selling. For insights on commodity price trends, see the London Metal Exchange which sets global copper benchmarks.
Where can I sell copper scrap in Auckland?
You can sell copper scrap at licensed scrap metal yards across Auckland, such as Endless Metals in Onehunga/Penrose and Wairau/Glenfield. These facilities ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards. For general guidance on choosing safe recyclers, check the ReMA (Recycling Management Association of NZ) resources.