January saw the Taumarunui Resource Recovery Centre have its busiest month so far this financial year with strong performance for waste diversion, reuse, and community support outcomes.
Resource Recovery Centre Manager Emily Jasmine said the summer holiday period traditionally brings a surge in activity, and this year was no exception.
“Over January we often see families come together from different parts of the motu, and that usually means clearing out homes, managing deceased estates, or starting long-planned renovation projects,” Ms Jasmine said.
“Our statistics reflect that, with January being our busiest month so far this financial year.”
Over 24 days of operation in January, the centre:
- Diverted 7,649.84 kilograms of material from landfill
- Rehomed 5,015 items back into the community
- Received 84 hours of volunteer support
- Gifted $2,852.30 worth of resources to community organisations
- Promoted Zero Waste Month
Ms Jasmine acknowledged both the challenging conditions and the dedication of staff during the peak summer period.
“It was extremely hot at times, and I want to recognise the intense working conditions my team worked through. Their commitment doesn’t go unnoticed – customers regularly showed their appreciation with deliveries of ice blocks and other treats, which were very gratefully received.”
Supporting local organisations
Throughout January, recovered materials were gifted to a wide range of local community organisations, supporting everything from education and food resilience to building projects, events and animal welfare.
Individuals also benefited through the gifting of plants, vegetables and flowers grown at the centre’s maara kai (food garden) and firewood.
Maara kai (food garden) flourishing
Ms Jasmine said that the centre’s maara kai (food garden) has continued to thrive over summer, providing fresh produce for the community.
“Our maara kai has been abundant, and people have really appreciated freshly picked rhubarb, kamokamo, silver beet and parsley. The vibrant flowers in the garden are also much appreciated,” she said.
Ms Jasmine thanked the Taumarunui community for their ongoing support and commitment to waste minimisation.
“These results are only possible because our community continues to support reuse, recovery and zero-waste practices.
Every item diverted, rehomed or shared makes a real difference – and January showed just how powerful that collective effort can be.”
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