We wrapped up this year’s Moth Plant Competition in the best possible way – with sunshine, smiles, and a fantastic Weed Swap event that brought the community together to celebrate and continue our collective mahi.
The weather turned it on for us, we were lucky to have a clear, sunny day, perfect for people to get outdoors and bring along the results of their hard work (especially after a lot of rain!). From every corner of the Howick Ward, locals turned up with bags, bins, and trailer-loads of invasive weeds from their gardens and backyards.
In return, we offered a native seedling for every bundle of weeds – a small gesture to encourage ongoing kaiawhina and the restoration of our local environment. It was great to see families, individuals, and school groups come through, proud of what they had collected and keen to keep up the momentum.
Over the course of both days we collected an incredible 20 cubic metres of weeds, which are now at a hot composting facility, meaning these pests won’t end up seeding again or going to landfill. This is a huge win for biodiversity, and we’re grateful for every person who played a part.
Events like these remind us what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose. Thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and helped organise the day. The energy and enthusiasm you brought was inspiring, and we can’t wait to build on this success in the months ahead.
Let’s keep pulling weeds, planting natives, and protecting the places we love.
Ngā mihi nui,
The Pest Free Howick Ward Team
Sophora microphylla – Kōwhai
(weeping kowhai, small-leaved kowhai)
Muehlenbeckia astonii – Shrubby Tororaro
(Mingimingi)
Veronica stricta – Koromiko
(Hebe)
Leptospermum scoparium – Manuka
(New Zealand Tea Tree)
Phormium tenax – Harakeke
(New Zealand flax)
Phormium cookianum – Mountain Flax
Pittosporum tenuifolium – Black Matipo
(Kohukohu)
Coprosma robusta – Karamū
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A Howick Local Board funded project