Waste Minimisation Fund
Whanganui District Council’s Waste Minimisation Fund aims to support local projects that keep resources in use for longer, reduce waste at the source, and help our community move towards a circular, low-waste future.
The Fund uses money allocated from the Waste Levy (landfill fees) not rates.
Who can apply?
The fund is open to:
- Community groups and organisations
- Charitable trusts and incorporated societies
- Schools and early childhood centres
- Iwi and hapū
- Social enterprises and not-for-profit businesses
- Businesses – provided they contribute at least 60% of the total project cost
You must be a legal entity registered in New Zealand – or partnered with one. Projects led by government agencies are not eligible, but partnerships are welcome.
What types of projects are supported?
We prioritise projects that target the upper levels of the waste hierarchy, including:
- Reuse – e.g. repair groups, tool libraries, second-hand systems
- Repurpose or redesign – giving new life to materials
- Waste reduction at the source – e.g. packaging-free systems or product redesign
- Education and behaviour change – promoting long-term habits that reduce waste
- Composting or recycling – particularly where it diverts large volumes from landfill.
The fund can support materials, equipment, project delivery costs, and staff time. It doesn’t cover business-as-usual operations, debt repayment, or general overheads.
How much funding is available?
- Around $60,000 per year is available across two rounds: August and February.
- Commercial applicants can apply for up to 40% of total project costs.
- Community-led and public-good projects may be eligible for larger contributions.
What we’re looking for
We assess eligible applications based on:
- Strong alignment with Whanganui’s Waste Management and Minimisation Plan
- A clear focus on reuse, repair, reduction, or repurposing
- Evidence the project will divert waste or prevent it at the source
- How well-prepared and realistic the proposal is
- Potential for long-term impact or ongoing benefits
- Community involvement and reach
- The track record and capability of your group.
Applications are reviewed by a council panel. Final decisions are made by the Chief Executive.
When to apply
There are two regular funding rounds each year – August and February. We may also consider late or out-of-cycle applications in special cases (e.g. urgent timeframes or unallocated funding).
If you’re successful
You’ll need to:
- Submit progress and final reports
- Show how much waste you reduced, reused, or diverted
- Share how the funding helped your project succeed.
How to apply
- Download the application form and explanatory notes
- Prepare your proposal and any supporting documents
- Submit your application by the deadline.