Any individual or company carrying out business as a Scrap Metal Dealer is required to hold a licence.
Individuals who trade up to a maximum of six times per annum (to a total of $2,000) will be required to obtain a licence. Employees and representatives, who make purchases on behalf of a company that holds a licence, also need to be certified.
When purchasing scrap metal, Dealers must view photographic identification of all customers. Acceptable forms are drivers licence, passport, firearms licence or school ID card. There are some exceptions to this requirement, such as when the metals are purchased from a public auction conducted by a licensed auctioneer or when the Dealer knows the customer personally and can attest to his/her identification.
You can download the relevant application form, factsheet and fee charges.
Further information on the Secondhand Dealers Act (2004) can be found at www.justice.govt.nz or from your nearest government bookshop.
