Handee takes another big step forward with sustainable packaging

Some of New Zealand’s most recognised household brands are leading the way with 30% recycled soft plastic packaging.

In 2021, Handee Paper Towel, Purex and Sorbent Toilet Paper were the first brands to offer Kiwi shoppers 20% recycled plastic packaging, reducing demand for virgin plastic and supporting the development of a circular economy.

While the shift to recycled soft plastic packaging presents a range of challenges including how it performs during production and limited availability of Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) material, Essity’s commitment to innovation at its Kawerau Mill means all three brands will transition to 30% recycled content from August 2023. 

By using 30% recycled content, Handee, Purex and Sorbent will save 60 Tonnes of virgin plastic per year; the equivalent weight of approximately eight large African elephants! Our packaging can also continue to be recycled via the Soft Plastics Recycling Scheme in New Zealand. To find your nearest drop off point visit Store Locator | Soft Plastics Recycling.

Look out for Handee in new 30% recycled packaging on shelves nationally from August. 

Read here for all our Handee news

Handee in NEW more sustainable packaging

Handee's investment into recycled plastic packaging comes after 18 months of research and trials investigating sustainable packaging options. The Handee paper towel range of products has been transitioning to 20% recycled plastic packaging since October 2021. This packaging includes waste plastic that has been recycled, which reduces landfill and supports the circular economy. Handee recycled plastic packaging creates 20% less waste than paper packaging equivalent and has a lower carbon footprint than virgin plastics. Handee packaging can be recycled again in NZ through the Soft Plastics Recycling Scheme. To find your nearest drop off point visit Store Locator | Soft Plastics Recycling

10 years of FSC certification

In September 2020 we celebrated our tenth anniversary of Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certification at our Kawerau mill in New Zealand, marking a significant milestone in our journey to promote responsible forestry.

Read more here

Handee is certified Home Compostable

It's official, Handee paper towels have been certified Home Compostable!

Handee paper towels are NZ’s only paper towel brand which is certified home compostable according to AS5810 (ABAP 20062). 

Instead of sending your used Handee paper towels to landfill, simply pop them in your home compost bin, worm farm or council food scraps bin. Composting Handee Paper towels will help reduce their carbon footprint.

You can easily turn your used Handee and other household kitchen and garden waste into a valuable resource, that can feed your garden or even your pot plants. Handee right?

Please do not compost if Handee has been used with cleaning chemicals or motor oil.

Get your hands on Handee

Handee is available at leading supermarkets across New Zealand.

Shop online at