Equipment returns and refurbishment
On this page you'll find information about our return and refurbishment
We clean and reissue equipment if it’s still in good condition. This means that more people with disabilities who meet the criteria for funding can get the equipment they need.
Many people don't realise their equipment was provided by Enable New Zealand — or that it can be returned when it's no longer needed. That's completely normal. Your equipment is prescribed by an assessor and delivered to your door, and our name isn't always front and centre.
But when equipment is returned, it makes a real difference.
Request a no-cost collection online.
Why returning equipment matters
It helps the next person get support sooner. When equipment comes back to us, we can get it ready and out to someone else — often faster than ordering new.
It makes good use of funding. Refurbishing a piece of equipment can save up to 70% compared with buying new. Within capped budgets, that means more people can be supported.
It keeps equipment safe. Equipment that's passed on informally — to a friend, neighbour, or family member — may need servicing, may no longer be safe, or may not be the right fit. When it comes back to us, we make sure it's checked, cleaned, and ready.
It's better for the environment. Reusing equipment keeps it out of landfill and reduces the need to manufacture and ship new items from overseas.
Not sure if your equipment is from Enable NZ? Look for an Enable NZ asset sticker on the frame. If you can't find one, get in touch and we can check for you.
What happens to returned equipment
When equipment arrives at one of our Refurbishment Centres in Hamilton, Palmerston North, or Christchurch, it goes through a thorough process before it's ever reissued.
Cleaned. Every item is cleaned and disinfected — including using specialist UV cleaning machines (HubScrub) that meet the highest industry standards.
Checked. Equipment is assessed for safety, function, and condition. If something needs repair, our in-house teams or one of our 500+ repair partners across Aotearoa will fix it.
Refurbished. Items are restored to an "as new" standard — repainted, re-upholstered, fitted with new parts where needed.
Reissued. Once it meets our safety and quality standards, it's ready to go to the next person who needs it.
If an item can't be safely refurbished, it's disposed of responsibly.
Video duration 2:01
The impact
Every year, Enable New Zealand refurbishes and reissues over 31,000 pieces of equipment. Our repair and refurbishment programme saves millions of dollars every year.
Refurbishing equipment to an "as new" standard costs on average 70% less than buying new — meaning more people can be supported, sooner.
Working in our Refurbishment Centre teams
In the following video, Grahame Edens talks about Enable NZ's Refurbishment Centre teams and what they do.
Video duration 2:47