Tyrewise Aotearoa and Tyre Stewardship Australia have formed a new regional body aimed at strengthening tyre recycling across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific, announcing the creation of the Trans-Tasman Tyre Recycling Alliance (TTRA).
The alliance will focus on sharing knowledge, supporting market development and advancing circular-economy solutions for end-of-life tyres.
Adele Rose, chief executive of Tyrewise scheme manager 3R Group, says the partnership brings together the strengths of two well-established systems.
“Tyrewise has demonstrated how quickly a regulated system can deliver high collection rates and meaningful recovery outcomes without leaving the cost impost on consumers at end of life, while TSA has over a decade of investment in research and innovation under its belt, accelerating use of tyre derived materials in its domestic market.
“By bringing each of our strengths to the TTRA, we can share knowledge and be the incubator for new technology that demonstrates how a regulated (in the case of New Zealand), well-supported schemes can foster greater circular outcomes,” she says.
Roase says the alliance will also help support Pacific Island nations, many of which import tyres from New Zealand and Australia but often lack the infrastructure to manage them at end of life.
The TTRA will prioritise projects that create high-value circular-economy outcomes, including the use of tyre-derived rubber in roading, advanced manufacturing and new product development. Its five focus areas include technology and innovation, market development, policy advocacy, knowledge sharing and representing Australasia in global stewardship discussions.
“This is about building resilient, circular economies that support jobs, innovation, and environmental responsibility,” Rose says.
“The future of tyre recycling in our region depends on the kind of collaboration the TTRA represents.”
The alliance will begin operating in early 2026, with governance structures and strategic priorities to be finalised over the coming months. Planned activities include industry summits, technical working groups and joint research.
“TSA and Tyrewise Aotearoa will both keep their independent operations in Australia and New Zealand but will contribute resources and expertise through the TTRA,” Rose says.
