Planting Native Species for Local Wildlife

Predator control and native planting go hand in hand. Reducing rats, possums and mustelids gives native wildlife a better chance, while native plants provide the food, shelter and breeding habitat they need to stay.

As pest control improves and gullies are restored, we’re seeing more native birds and other wildlife around Tamahere. To keep them here — not just passing through — we need to keep improving habitat in gardens, gullies, river edges and larger restoration areas.

A lush, green wetland with various ferns and tall plants, a wooden boardwalk path winding through the vegetation, and trees on a hillside in the background under a clear sky.

Resources

Check out these resources about planting natives in your backyard or gully property:

Our local notes

  • Planting for kererū: Kererū need large native trees and seasonal food sources to stay and breed locally. Planting the right species helps turn gardens, gullies and stream edges into better habitat. Read: Planting for kererū

  • Pest plants in restoration areas: Restoring gullies is not only about planting natives — it also means recognising and controlling pest plants such as pampas, woolly nightshade, privet and old man’s beard. Check out our blog: Toetoe or pampas?

For well-priced native plants, visit these local nurseries:

Have a gully, river edge or restoration area?
Tell us what you’re working on. Some of our volunteers have hands-on gully restoration experience and may be able to connect you with local planting advice, nearby restorers, or spare self-seeded natives such as kahikatea or cabbage tree seedlings.