The Government has announced funding for a project to investigate the environmental impacts of a former Whanganui landfill that operated for more than 40 years.
Minister for the Environment, Nicola Grigg said the allocation of $464,000 from the Contaminated Sites and Vulnerable Landfills Fund, combined with funding from the Whanganui District Council, will enable a comprehensive investigation and assessment of remedial actions of the former Balgownie Landfill.
The landfill operated between 1956 to 1995, with parts of it operating a further six years to 2001.
“Due to the age of the landfill, the site does not have several features associated with modern landfill containment and risk management,” said Ms Grigg.
“This investigation will give us a complete picture of how any contamination and leachate from the site may be affecting surrounding waterways and wetlands, and what long-term options may be needed to protect the environment.”
This work will complement significant community-led restoration work already underway, including the Kokohuia/Titoki Wetland project.
“This investigation is an important first step in exploring ways to further restore the area’s cultural and environmental values, and reflects a collaborative approach between Whanganui hapū, Whanganui District Council and central government to secure long-term environmental benefits for Te Awa Tupua/the wider Whanganui Catchment,” Ms Grigg says.
The project is expected to be completed by October 2027.
