Upper Hutt City Council has funded 13 local projects through its first round of public Waste Minimisation Grants, supporting practical community ideas to reduce waste, improve resource recovery and contribute to the local economy.

The grants are funded through the waste disposal levy administered by the Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport, supporting the Wellington Regional Waste Management and Minimisation Plan 2023–2029.

The successful projects include school and community composting initiatives, biochar production, bike repairs, public education and finding new uses for waste materials.

Two funding streams were available. Projects seeking $7,000 or less could apply through the small grants stream, while projects seeking more than $7,000 could apply through the large grants stream.

“There is clear demand for support to help local waste-minimisation projects get off the ground and create a lasting impact,” says Councillor Angela McLeod, who chaired the Grants Panel on 14 August.

“These projects can make a real contribution to protecting the natural environment around our city for future generations to enjoy, as well as contributing to the community’s financial success through the circular economy.”

Applications were assessed against alignment with regional and local waste plans, likely waste-reduction outcomes, project feasibility, organisational capability, financial sustainability, and wider environmental and community benefits.

Council Group Manager Operations Tim Harty says community-led projects can play an important role in finding practical ways to reduce waste.

“When organisations share skills, knowledge and resources, they can make a bigger difference and help great local ideas grow across Upper Hutt.”

“We’re looking forward to seeing the impact these projects have in the years to come.”

Council plans to continue offering Waste Minimisation Grants to support innovation, raise awareness of waste minimisation and reduce the environmental and financial impacts of sending waste to landfill.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

29/08/26