31 Jul 2026
2 months ago
645 views
The New Zealand government, alongside the Whanganui District Council, has allocated $464,000 to investigate the environmental impacts of the former Balgownie Landfill, which operated from 1956 to 2001 without modern containment features. The project aims to assess contamination and leachate effects on nearby waterways and wetlands, informing long-term remedial actions to protect the environment. This investigation complements ongoing community restoration efforts and involves collaboration with Whanganui hapū to enhance cultural and environmental values in the Whanganui Catchment, with completion expected by October 2027.
20 May 2026
5 months ago
1022 views
The New Zealand Government is funding seven local authorities and 68 non-government organisations through the Survivor Support and Recognition Fund (SSRF) to memorialise at least 4,000 unmarked graves linked to psychiatric and psychopaedic sites and to support survivors of abuse in care. Since its establishment after the 2024 public apology, the SSRF has allocated over $4.9 million in two funding rounds to create memorials, provide survivor services such as peer support and therapy, and conduct research on burial sites. These initiatives aim to acknowledge the long-term impact of abuse and neglect in care, fulfilling key recommendations of the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry.
20 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1114 views
The NZ Transport Agency has approved $2.7 million funding for a new Wakefield Street railway overbridge in Whanganui East to replace the unsafe 70-year-old timber bridge closed in January 2025. The new bridge, funded 62% by NZTA and the remainder by Whanganui District Council, will restore a vital local connection, support heavier vehicles, and improve transport resilience. Construction is set to begin later this year and finish by mid-2027, enhancing safety and efficiency for residents and businesses.
01 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1144 views
Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey highlights positive trends in mental health and addiction services performance nationwide, with increased access to support and progress in meeting targets observed across various regions. The focus remains on not just meeting national targets but also addressing areas needing additional support, with a 10% growth in the frontline mental health workforce. The government's commitment is to deliver faster support, more frontline workers, and improved crisis response to ensure assistance is readily available for those in need throughout New Zealand.