Recycling net trial set to begin on wind-prone Whanganui streets
Published on 24 February 2026
An 8-week trial of special recycling crate nets is set to begin next week on selected wind-prone streets across Whanganui, with around 1000 households participating.
Kerbside recycling continues to see strong participation from households. However, recycling being blown out from crates on windy days is an issue raised regularly by residents.
Running from 2 March to 24 April, the trial will test whether using recycling crate nets reduces wind-blown recycling and works smoothly alongside existing collection processes. The nets are designed to be tethered directly to the crate, ensuring they remain attached and cannot blow away.
Councillor Rob Vinsen, Waste Portfolio holder, has played a key role in developing the initiative and says it’s exciting that we may have a practical solution to wind-related recycling issues.
“Overall, kerbside recycling in Whanganui is working well. The strength of the open-top crates is that they allow the collection team to quickly spot non-recyclable items before they end it up in the truck – meaning we have one of the lowest contamination rates in the country.
“However, the wind issue has been a common concern – and it’s a fair one. This initiative is about addressing the wind issue while keeping the strengths of the system. I’m confident the nets will work well, but it’s important we test how they perform in real-world conditions and hear feedback from the collection team.”
Cr Vinsen says the recycling crate nets are a low-cost option sourced from China and are used across the world.
“They cost less than rubber wheelie bin clips offered by many councils – and even better, they will not be funded by rates. Both the trial, and any wider availability of the nets, will be funded through the council’s allocation of waste disposal levy revenue from central government – not rates.”
Households participating in the trial will be asked to complete a short survey before and after the trial to help the council learn how well the nets have worked for them.
If the trial proves successful, recycling crate nets will likely be made available to households across the kerbside recycling service area in future.
Residents with questions about the initiative can contact the Waste Team at wasteteam@whanganui.govt.nz