Protecting our natural environment and waterways is a priority for Aucklanders. Auckland Council’s 10-year budget (2018-2028) ring-fences $311 million through a Natural Environment Targeted Rate for projects that tackle pests, weeds and diseases threatening our native species and ecosystems.
Through these projects, Auckland Council is increasing pest plant and pest animal control in and around public parks. Some of the funding is used for local projects in Albert-Eden. Pest plant and animal control are being prioritized in Heron Park, Withiel Thomas Reserve and Oakley Creek Walkway. The Board is also enhancing support for community groups to protect local eco systems.
Additionally, the board has allocated separate discretionary funding to the Community Weed Control Buffer Project for 2019-2020. This project helps landowners living next to some local parks and reserves to control invasive weeds on their properties and create a ‘buffer’ to protect the park from neighbouring weed invasion.
“It is important to work with residents and landowners in controlling weeds," says Rowena Gilchrist, Senior Biosecurity Advisor.
"While Auckland Council, and in some cases local community groups, invest time and resources on pest plant control in parks and reserves, weeds from adjoining private properties often jump the fence and spread to the neighbouring parks.
“This program starts with offering help to properties around selected areas of Oakley Creek.”
The project also aims to help private landowners so they will continue to carry out their own follow-up control and learn more about weeds.
Auckland Council staff work with community groups such as Friends of Oakley Creek Te Auaunga to offer support and advice to neighbours, and provide herbicide gels and weed bags on a case-by-case basis, to help people with their weed control efforts.
