Our story
From three sweeper trucks to New Zealand’s leading waste solutions provider
WasteCo started out in Christchurch in 2013 with three sweeper trucks and some big ambitions. It’s since grown into New Zealand’s only publicly listed waste services company—managing waste across the country and turning challenges into sustainable solutions for councils, businesses and local communities.
The beginning: a ‘yes’ philosophy
Founders Carl Storm, James Redmayne and Rob Baan launched with a distinctly Kiwi ‘give it a go’ mentality. This approach to the waste management industry became our ‘Yes’ philosophy—saying yes to any waste challenge; anytime, anywhere, no matter how complex or unconventional.
WasteCo’s can-do attitude quickly resonated with customers who were tired of being told what couldn’t be done. The small Christchurch operation rapidly expanded into a multi-division business serving clients across New Zealand.
Who we are today
We are one of New Zealand’s leading waste management providers, delivering comprehensive solutions including:
Municipal & commercial services
- City sweeping and street cleaning
- Industrial waste solutions
- On-site and facility waste sorting
Specialised services
- Port services and logistics
- Medical and quarantine waste treatment
- Waste oil processing and recovery
- Portaloo hire and sanitation
Our purpose
We deliver smarter, safer and more sustainable waste solutions that create cleaner environments for all. As stewards of the complete waste lifecycle, we recover valuable resources, protect public health and help our partners achieve their environmental goals.
Strategic growth through partnership
Our expansion combines organic growth with carefully selected acquisitions that strengthen our capabilities:
- In 2022 WasteCo listed on the NZX, becoming New Zealand's only publicly listed waste services company.
- WasteCo acquired four companies in 2023: Central Suction Cleaners (Nelson), Cleanways (2003) Ltd, Enviro South, and Wastech Services.
- In 2024, we acquired Civic Waste Limited, expanding to the North Island and adding $20 million in annual revenue.
Recent achievements
Our commitment to growth and sustainability has delivered strong results for FY2025.
Revenue growth
From $48 million to $57 million (a 19% increase from FY2024).
Performance improvement
Operating EBITDA increased by $1.39 million.
Strategic investment
$15 million investment from Empire Waste Technology Limited.
Community support
$5 million Share Purchase Plan fully subscribed.
Fleet modernisation
Added hybrid Toyota RAV4s and Polestar 2 EVs.
International recognition
Continued our Cleaner Antarctica Initiative, managing frozen waste for Antarctica New Zealand.
Built for resilience, focused on sustainability
The waste management sector requires both stability and adaptability. While economic conditions in 2024-2025 reduced some commercial waste volumes, our long-term municipal contracts provided the stability that allowed us to continue investing in our people, services and technology.
Wasteco’s Christchurch operations proudly hold Toitū Envirocare Diamond Certification—the highest level of environmental recognition available, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable practices at every level.
Staying true to our values
As we’ve grown into a national leader, our core philosophy hasn’t changed. We still say ‘yes’ to complex challenges. We still put relationships first. And we still believe that with the right approach, every waste problem has a sustainable solution.
Our success is built on enduring partnerships with councils, households and commercial clients who trust us to deliver. Every day, we work to earn that trust through our commitment to customer satisfaction, health and safety, and environmental responsibility.
Looking forward
From our Christchurch roots to our national operations, WasteCo continues to grow by solving real waste challenges for our customers. Our proven systems, experienced teams and strong partnerships across New Zealand are focused on delivering reliable waste solutions that work.