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.

Many locals are noticing more native birds around Tamahere. Predator control and habitat restoration both help create better conditions for wildlife. To keep birds and other native species 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.

Useful planting guides

Pest plants: Restoring gullies also means controlling weeds such as pampas, woolly nightshade, privet and old man’s beard. See the Waikato Regional Council pest plant guide.

Where to buy native plants

Tamahere Nursery: Volunteer-run nursery at 284 Airport Road. Email the nursery for availability.

Full Bloom Nursery: Native nursery at Newstead, open to the public.

Wairere Nursery: Gordonton nursery with a large native range.

The Plant Place: Hamilton garden centre with a good native range.

Forest Flora: Ngaruawahia nursery specialising in eco-sourced plants for restoration.

Restore Native: Cambridge-based supplier for larger projects; minimum order 250 mixed plants. Contact Adam.

Planning a gully or restoration planting? Use eco-sourced plants suited to your site. See Bruce Clarkson’s Gully Restoration Guide.

Need help with gully planting or gully pest management?
Local companies such as Titoki Landcare and Green Footprint can provide advice and practical support for larger restoration areas. We’ve found Adam Purcell and the Titoki Landcare team, and Clare and Tim from Green Footprint, knowledgeable and helpful.

Restoring your gully or other areas on your Tamahere property?
Get in touch and 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.