Our plan to protect nature
Wellington's biodiversity is important and at risk. But we have a plan:
Our Natural Capital – Wellington's Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
In 2015, we started this vision for the city’s native biodiversity. It outlines our goals and plan to protect Wellington's iconic natural areas that make our city an exciting and vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
Our goals and actions are grouped into four themes:
- Protect the ecologically significant areas on private and public land, particularly through pest reduction
- Restore these areas – create safe buffer zones around them and connect them
- Connect people to the importance of and threats to our indigenous biodiversity, and provide resources and support for restoration work across all our reserves
- Research the best ways we can continue to manage our issues and progress
The Council in action
The Council aims to protect and restore biodiversity through a range of projects and services across the nearly 4500 hectares (that's about 4500 rugby fields) of public open spaces we manage.
Restore natural habitat
The Council plants eco-sourced native species across Wellington to create a variety of habitats in dunes, wetland, streams and forests that are closer to their original, natural state. Find out more about eco-sourcing plants on NZ Plant Conservation website.
Encourage native plants and animals
Facilities such as О̄tari-Wilton's Bush and Zealandia provide habitat for a range of native species. These facilities, along with Wellington Zoo, are involved in advocacy and education programmes for native species.
Plant what we've lost
The Council plants appropriate species and transitions areas from exotic to indigenous plant life. Berhampore Nursery works year-round to produce the plants needed for this.
Control pests
The Council's pest management programme works to control plant and animal pests.
Connect with the community
We can't do it alone. The Council provides support, funding, and guidance to environmental community groups and individuals who are helping us protect our natural environment.