We’ve all got that friend who’s a bit of a pest. They show up unexpectedly, they overstay their welcome, and they hog all the snacks. Now imagine that friend is a plant. That’s right, we’re talking about invasive pest plants. They’re the uninvited guests in the environment and its high time we showed them the door.
Invasive plants sneak into our parks, gardens, nature reserves and roadsides, elbow out the local flora, and wreak havoc on our ecosystems, altering habitat and food sources for favourite native critters. Who doesn’t love seeing Kereru and Tui in their back garden?
But there’s good news: you can help do something about it! You don’t need to be a superhero or a botanist. All you need is a bit of spare time, a pair of gloves and a desire to give back to Mother Nature.
Why should you care about removing these botanical bullies? For starters, invasive plants cause all sorts of problems. They can reduce biodiversity – the variety of living things, alter soil chemistry and even increase the risk of fire. For example, woolly nightshade grows rapidly, shades out native plants and exudes plant chemicals through the soil to stop other plants from germinating. It’s trouble for livestock and can cause breathing problems for humans as it sheds fine hairs when touched. This is multiplying in our environment now, it fruits and flowers at any time of year and the seeds last decades.
Volunteering to remove invasive pest plants is deeply satisfying. It’s a chance to make a real difference in your community. You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping to protect local wildlife, preserve natural beauty for future generations of people, and keep our beloved Piwakawaka close by.
It’s a great way to meet new friends by bonding over a shared dislike of privet or busting through a patch of climbing asparagus to free the native seedlings beneath. Bonus, the Friends of Kaitoke Walkway also have a steady supply of home baking provided for morning tea.
Spending time in nature with others in a shared goal has positive benefits for your mood and wellbeing. So, while you’re giving those pesky plants the boot you’ll be doing your mind and body a favour too.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gloves, lace up your sturdy shoes and come along and join the green army.
Friends of Kaitoke Walkway meet 1st and 3rd Saturday 9am for 2-3 hours of shared work.
Friends of Wainui Bush Reserve meet Thursdays.
Every little bit helps make a world of difference. For more information, contact: whaingaroaweedbusters@gmail.com
