OCS New Zealand

OCS New Zealand (OCS NZ) is managed by Plastics New Zealand, industry association for members of the plastics value chain within Aotearoa.

aerial view of beach with mountains
aerial view of beach with mountains

To gain OCS NZ certification, plastic resin handling sites are audited to ensure they need the necessary standards to mitigate resin loss.

He rau ringa e oti ai

Many hands make light work

As a small nation with over 15,000 kilometres of coastline, it's no surprise that Aotearoa New Zealand is deeply connected to its wai (waters).

Wai holds cultural significance, sustains our unique biodiversity, provides our kai (food), and supports economic and recreational activities. Protecting our awa (rivers), roto (lakes), and moana (ocean) is crucial to preserving these resources for us and future generations.

We all have a role to play in protecting our environment. Mitigating plastic pollution is one way that our industry can help. By ensuring that proper practices are in place to prevent and manage spills, we can prevent raw plastics from leaking into stormwater drains, waterways, and, ultimately, the moana.

Our 'Wai'...

Watch the video to see how OCS Protects Our Waterways:

OCS NZ Criteria

All sites that handle raw plastics within Aotearoa are eligible to become OCS NZ certified. This includes:

  • Plastics Manufacturers

  • Plastics Recyclers/Reprocessors

  • Logistics and Warehousing


To become certified, sites must be audited by a Plastics New Zealand appointed third party auditor. This helps to ensure that the correct measures are in place for handling plastics safely, managing spills effectively, and capturing leaked materials.

Because each site is different, OCS certification is awarded to sites rather than companies. The checklist to the right can help companies to consider which measures they could put in place to mitigate risks on their sites.

We're upgrading OCS NZ for lasting accountability and environmental impact. New resources are being developed as part of this process. More information on the current OCS NZ programme can found on our resources page. Follow the link below.

Watch to learn more about stormwater filters:

Watch to learn more about spill clean ups:

Spill Prevention and Response:

  • A spill response procedure is in place

  • Well maintained clean up equipment is available

  • Staff are trained in material handing and spill clean up procedures.

OCS NZ Checklist:

Site Management:

  • Measures are in place to prevent the movement of spilled material.

  • All stormwater drains in 'at risk' areas have suitable filters in place.

  • Checking and emptying stormwater filters is completed and recorded regularly as part of a maintenance schedule.

Secure Storage and Transport:

  • Raw material is stored and transported securely.

  • Regular monitoring for damage/leaks is conducted.

*Companies are encouraged to adapt these recommendations based on their unique goals and operational needs. To discuss this further and arrange an audit, contact: katy@plastics.org.nz