Smash rooms, also known as rage rooms, are stress-relieving spaces where people destroy unusable and unwanted inanimate objects for fun and catharsis.
While it might not immediately scream ‘sustainable’, behind the sound of shattering glass you’ll find a virtuous business owner looking to make these outlets of emotional release more environmentally responsible and ethically handled.
Some well managed ‘destruction depots’ - such as The Smash Room, opening in Auckland 4 July - are actively flipping the narrative in NZ. With two venues currently operating in Wellington and Upper Hutt, they’re reusing, recycling, and reclaiming materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. From outdated electronics to chipped crockery, many of the items being smashed are sourced from local op-shops with more stock than shelf space and businesses with unsellable inventory.
“Everything that comes through our doors was headed for landfill, often at a cost to local charities” says Lloyd Bombell, co-founder of The Smash Room. “We’re taking the stress of disposal off those organisations, and giving the items one last lease on life.”
Sustainability Practices at The Smash Room:
- Reclaimed Items Only: Items like old printers, dishes, and furniture are collected secondhand — never bought new for the sole purpose of being broken.
- Careful Waste Sorting: After each session, broken materials are sorted for proper recycling. Metal, and electronics are separated to reduce landfill contribution.
- Safety and Ethics First: Protective gear is always provided, and all materials are vetted to ensure nothing toxic (like batteries or pressurized containers) ends up in the smash zone.
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Community Integration: The Smash Room partners with local recycling programs and e-waste centers to close the loop on material use.
Beyond the environmental side, there’s an ethical commitment at play, too. Ethical smash rooms focus on creating safe, inclusive spaces that encourage emotional release without glamorizing destruction for its own sake.
“We’re not about inciting reckless violence” says co-owner Sarah Hilyard. “We’re offering people a healthy outlet - in a way that aligns with our values: reducing waste, supporting mental health, and taking care of our community.”
As the wellness industry continues to expand, sustainable smash rooms are carving out a unique niche where catharsis and consciousness can coexist.
The Smash Room Auckland opens July 4th 2025. Bookings available via:
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