Waikato pig farm hit with record $430K fine for toxic effluent dumping

Toxic waste from a Waikato farm poisoned fragile ecosystems—now it’s paying the price. The landmark penalty sends a warning to industries flouting environmental laws.

, and Administrator

2025 November 24 . 7:13 PM

1 min read

In the picture we can find one hoarding is written something about the technology fair. In the... — In the picture we can find one hoarding is written something about the technology fair. In the background we can find some chairs, tables and some people and a wall, in the ceiling we can find a light.

Waikato pig farm hit with record $430K fine for toxic effluent dumping

A Waikato pig farm has received the largest fine under the Resource Management Act in its 34-year history. The farm was penalised $430,000 for repeatedly dumping raw effluent into nearby streams. Meanwhile, a body has been discovered in the search for missing Auckland woman Te Anihana Pomana.

The Waikato pig management farm faced legal action after its effluent discharges severely damaged local waterways. The contamination harmed diverse fish populations, some of which were already at risk. Authorities confirmed the $430,000 penalty as the highest ever under the Resource Management Act.

The pig farm’s fine sets a record for environmental breaches under New Zealand law. The discovery in the Pomana case brings a potential end to weeks of searching. Meanwhile, the new school speed limits aim to improve safety for students near busy highways.