Small, dynamic and recently settled: Responding to the impacts of plant invasions in the New Zealand (aotearoa) archipelago

Abstract

New Zealand was one of the last land masses to be populated by humans, and its isolation has contributed to the large number of endemic species that the country is known for. With increased global movement of people and goods this historic advantage no longer exists. In the last several decades numerous legislative, policy and operational tools have been used to protect New Zealand’s special areas and biota from invasive alien species. With the benefit of 25 years of dedicated protection efforts by the Department of Conservation, best practice alien plant control techniques have been developed, building on lessons from animal pest eradications, trophic relationships, and on-the ground pragmatism and experience. Increasingly, an essential tool to achieving greater success will be working with other agencies, businesses and communities to harness resources. Three case studies illustrate the approaches and lessons learnt from alien plant management in New Zealand in the last 25 years: Raoul Island in the far north of New Zealand, Hen and Chicken Islands to the east of North Auckland Peninsula, and Fiordland National Park in south-western South Island.