A hands-on Waipā District Council initiative teaching people how to make their own
household cleaning products has landed a finalist spot in the 2025 WasteMINZ Awards.
The Make and Donate programme was nominated in the ‘best initiative to reduce waste or
redesign products’ category. The annual awards celebrate innovation and impact in the
waste, resource recovery and contaminated land sectors across Aotearoa.
Launched in mid-2024, the free workshops help people create affordable, sustainable
alternatives to everyday cleaning products like washing powder, cleaning paste, bench
spray, and dishwasher powder, using items they often already have at home.
Waste Minimisation Advisor Shelley Wilson said her team was proud to see the programme
acknowledged at a national level alongside so many inspiring initiatives.
“The recognition is really exciting for us. The workshops are all about empowering people to
take small, practical steps to include in their daily lives to reduce waste and save money.”
The sessions are funded by the Central Government’s Waste Minimisation Levy and have
been a hit with the community, with overwhelmingly positive feedback.
The idea is simple: make a batch for yourself, and one to give away to a friend, a neighbour,
or a local community group.
“People often tell us they feel empowered to continue on their waste minimisation journey
after attending,” Wilson said.
“For many, it’s about building confidence in learning to be resourceful - that has been a
highlight of the project for me. Thank you to everyone who’s joined a session, donated and
shared the kaupapa.”
Winners of the 2025 WasteMINZ Awards will be announced at the official ceremony on
Tuesday, June 10, in Christchurch.
