Save the planet and some coin by sourcing secondhand materials for your next building or renovation project. Here are some quick tips to guide the way
Your guide to recycled building materials across New Zealand
You don’t have to buy new materials if you’re building or renovating – secondhand items will add character, cut costs and minimise the environmental impact of your project. You can also recycle, sell or donate any leftover materials – speak to your builder about the best way to do this.
What to look for
Search demolition yards for building materials including wood, doors, windows and roofing; finishes such as paint, carpet and wallpaper; fittings such as kitchen cabinetry, sinks and tapware; and landscaping items such as fencing, sleepers, pavers and bricks. If you’re renovating a heritage home or want to add character to a new-build, look for stained-glass windows and other period items.
Where to shop
Have a look at the ‘Building and Renovation’ section on Trade Me or visit your local salvage yard or reuse shop – here are some good places to start.
+ Demolition Traders 249 Kahikatea Drive, Frankton, Hamilton
+ North Shore Demolition 60 Patiki Road, Avondale, Auckland
+ Musgroves 3 Musgrove Close, Wigram, Christchurch
+ Burrell Demolition 18 Westmoreland Street West, Grey Lynn, Auckland
+ Wanaka Wastebusters 189 Ballantyne Road, Wanaka
+ Nelson Reuse & Recycle Centre 6 Vivian Place, Tahunanui, Nelson
+ Renovation Warehouse 28 Kioreroa Road, Port Whangarei
+ No. 8 Building Recyclers 114 Tirangi Road, Rongotai, Wellington
+ Xtreme Zero Waste Recycling Centre 186 Te Hutewai Road, Raglan
+ Hall Bros Transport 26 Cresswell Street, Dunedin
Relocatable homes
Did you know you can buy a home for as little as $10,000? All you have to do is supply the land for it to live on. Yes, once you factor in relocation costs such as transport and foundations you’ll be spending closer to $150,000, but that’s still a lot cheaper than most new-builds, and you’ll have saved a house from being demolished. Check out the homes on offer at:
+ The Relocatable House Co.
+ Haines House Removals
+ Craig Walker Building Removals
Text by: Fiona Ralph.
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