Kirk’s Bush and the Butterworth Block are being prioritised for pest plant and animal control courtesy of Auckland Council’s targeted natural environment rate.
Auckland Council has provided a breakdown of spending made possible by the introduction of water quality and natural environment targeted rates. It says protecting the natural environment and waterways is a priority and its 10-year budget ring-fences $311 million through the natural environment rate for projects tackling pests, weeds and diseases.
Another $452 million raised through a water quality rate will ensure cleaner beaches, streams and harbours.
Within the Papakura area, pest plant and animal control in and around public parks has been ramped up and is expected to expand further.
Both Kirk’s and the Butterworth Block have benefited, and the council says Kirk’s is also receiving attention under its kauri dieback initiatives.
Targeted water rate funding is being used to investigate water network issues and to identify ways to make popular swimming sites safer.
There are also stream restoration activities underway at the Slippery Creek outfall, along the Papakura Stream through a partnership with Fonterra, and on the stream via Waterways Protection Fund Papakura Stream catchment grants that are funding landowners for fencing, protection and restoration of streams and watercourses in the catchment.
