Have a creative idea to reduce waste and help your community shine? Waipā District Council has
$50,000 (thanks to Central Government) to help bring your waste-busting project to life!
Whether you're an individual, part of a marae, a teacher, an organisation or a local group, this is
your chance to grab a share of the Waste Minimisation Community Fund.
Waste minimisation advisor Shelley Wilson said it's all about turning waste challenges into exciting
new solutions - we want to support projects that help rethink, reduce and reuse waste.
“It’s amazing to see how a little creativity can go a long way. We’re excited to see what projects will
come through this year’s funding round.”
One project that grew as a result of the fund last year was Street Harvest, which expanded its
neighbourhood gardens. The project provides worm farms where people can dispose of their food
scraps, and veggie gardens for fresh produce. Thanks to the fund, the project has tripled the amount
of food scraps being processed, and produced more food as a result.
Project manager Elise Badger said what started out as a way to reduce waste and grow food has
turned into something really special. “It brings neighbours together for a good chat and some
community bonding. Our planting days are always a highlight!”
Wilson said it was a perfect example of how a small idea can grow into something that can benefit
the whole community.
The funding is provided to councils from the Ministry for the Environment’s waste disposal levy.
Don’t wait—applications close at 5pm, Friday, April 18, 2025. For all the details and to apply, head to
wastelesswaipa.co.nz/wastefund
