Waste Levy Grants awarded to community projects driving long-term change on the Kāpiti Coast

Kāpiti Coast District Council has awarded almost $17,000.00 for 2025/26 Waste Levy Grants to five of inspiring community-led projects, each focused on creating a cleaner, more sustainable future through education, engagement, and long-term waste minimisation.

Council Waste Minimisation Manager Robbie Stillwell said the grants support grassroots initiatives that empower communities to rethink waste practices, reduce landfill contributions, and adopt lasting sustainable practices.

“This year’s successful applicants include schools, social enterprises, and local community groups whose projects range from composting and repair workshops to circular economy education programmes and innovative recycling schemes,” said Mr Stillwell.

“Each initiative aligns with the goal of fostering behaviour change and building zero-waste culture from the ground up.

“These projects go beyond short-term fixes. They educate, involve, and inspire people to make meaningful, lasting changes in the way they manage waste.

The Waste Levy Grants are made possible through funds collected under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008 (Section 47) Council’s grants are in line with the Wellington Waste Management and Minimisation Plan’s guiding principles to ensure the levies are reinvested into local solutions that reduce waste and increase resource recovery.

“What makes this year’s grants especially powerful is the level of community participation,” said Mr Stillwell.

“These aren’t just projects run for the community – they are led by the community.

This approach ensures the impact will extend well beyond the life of each project, embedding sustainable habits for years to come.

Congratulations to the recipients, we look forward to seeing their ideas in action over the coming months.”

Waste Levy Grant community project recipients:

• Mary Potter Hospice for reusable tablecloths at the Kāpiti Strawberry Festival
• Raumati Technology Centre to deliver a workshops programme 'Closing The Loop' for Students, and a worm farm
• Kāpiti Art Studio and Te Ara Korowai to deliver it's 'From Rags to Riches' - Upcycling workshops for a Sustainable Kāpiti
• Kāpiti College to undertake a waste audit and recommendations report
• Paekākāriki Stuff Library for its project 'community stuff library' – part-fund

More information about the Waste Levy Grants can be found on Council’s website: https://www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/services/grants-and-funding/waste-reduction-grants/