Auckland isn’t just a stunning harbor city—it’s also a dynamic center for scrap metal recycling. Whether you're clearing out household wiring, automotive parts, or metal offcuts, knowing current per-kilogram rates gives you the edge when selling your scrap. Here’s an updated 2025 snapshot to help you earn what you're owed.
Current Scrap Metal Prices per Kilogram in Auckland
Price listings are fluid and many yards avoid publishing rates due to daily fluctuations. However, here's a representative overview based on reputable industry sources:
Dominion Trading / Metalcorp (Christchurch-based, widely used estimates)
- Copper: NZD 10.90 – 13.20/kg
- Brass (clean): NZD 5.40 – 7.08/kg
- Aluminium (clean): NZD 1.90 – 2.65/kg
- Lead: NZD 1.15 – 1.80/kg
- Stainless Steel: NZD 0.75 – 1.20/kg
- PVC Copper Cable: NZD 1.80 – 8.50/kg scrapmetalpricer.ca
Happy Scrappy (National averages)
- Copper: NZD 9.45 – 11.30/kg
- Brass: NZD 5.40 – 6.45/kg
- Aluminium: NZD 1.65 – 2.15/kg
- Lead: NZD 1.15 – 1.40/kg
- Stainless Steel: NZD 1.00 – 1.40/kg
- PVC Copper Cable: Up to NZD 8.15/kg scrapmetalpricer.ca
Summary Table
| Metal Type | Price Range (NZD/kg) |
|---|---|
| Copper (Clean) | ~10.90 – 13.20 |
| Brass (Clean) | ~5.40 – 7.08 |
| Aluminium (Clean) | ~1.65 – 2.65 |
| Stainless Steel | ~0.75 – 1.40 |
| Lead | ~1.15 – 1.80 |
| PVC Copper Cable | ~1.80 – 8.50 |
Copper leads the value leaderboard, followed by brass and aluminium, while lead and stainless steel offer modest returns—even so every bit adds up.
Why Prices Vary Frequently
Scrap metal prices aren’t fixed—they’re influenced by:
- Global Commodity Markets: Changes in international demand and exchange rates often ripple down to local scrap yards.
- Metal Purity & Sorting: Clean copper, sorted brass, and cable are more valuable than mixed or dirty scrap.
- Local Market Factors: Proximity to recyclers, competition, and transport logistics impact local offers.
Tips for Selling Scrap Smarter in Auckland
- Separate by Metal Type – Keep copper, brass, aluminium, etc., cleaned and distinct to fetch better prices.
- Check Before Visiting – Call a few yards or consult lists to confirm today’s rates.
- Bundle for Better Rates – Larger volumes can unlock improved per-kilogram offers.
- Ask Locals – Redditors often recommend yards or share current rates—real intel beats assumed value.
Final Word
Auckland’s scrap metal market is vibrant. Clean copper might net you over NZD 13 per kilogram, while brass and aluminium still offer respectable returns. If you're ready to cash in smarter—and let verified buyers compete for your metals—consider digital marketplaces that make it easy.