Funding secured to investigate historic Balgownie Landfill
Published on 31 July 2026
Whanganui District Council has secured $464,000 from the Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) to investigate environmental conditions at the former Balgownie Landfill.
Balgownie Landfill operated from the 1950s until 2000. Like many of the nearly 3,500 former landfill sites across New Zealand, it was developed before modern environmental standards were introduced.
The investigations will provide a clearer understanding of the former landfill and its surrounding environment, helping inform future decisions about the site’s long-term management.
Whanganui Mayor Andrew Tripe welcomed the announcement, saying the funding marks an important step towards better understanding the former landfill and planning responsibly for its future.
"This investigation is about getting the facts. Before we make decisions about the site's future, we need to understand its condition and how it relates to the surrounding environment.
"Like many people who grew up in Whanganui, I have memories of visiting Balgownie as a kid and hunting for treasure. Looking back, I realise how much our understanding of waste and its impacts has changed over the years.
"While we can't change how things were done in the past, we can do our best to manage the site responsibly into the future. These investigations will help us do that."
The project is being undertaken in partnership with local hapū with the Mokoia Catchment Rōpū, bringing together scientific investigations, local knowledge and specialist expertise to help inform future decisions.
Rōpū chair Ken Mair says understanding the landfill is important for the wider catchment.
"The waterways and wetlands in this area flow through to Te Awa Tupua, so this work is an important step toward improving the health of the Awa and surrounding environment.
"Looking at future options for the landfill will support a broader programme of work focused on the wellbeing of whānau, whenua and the river."
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.