Native Planting and Weed Control
Help restore our native habitats and strengthen biodiversity— plant natives, remove weeds, and join others caring for te taiao.
Native species support the mauri of our environment by providing habitat and food for birds, insects, lizards, and other wildlife. Planting natives and controlling invasive weeds helps restore biodiversity and protect waterways.
Nelson’s unique landscapes support species such as kererū, tūī, wētā, and geckos — all dependent on healthy, weed‑free habitats.
This page offers practical guidance to help you get started.
Simple actions you can take:
- Plant natives suited to your area
- Remove invasive weeds
- Create wildlife‑friendly gardens
- Join community planting or weed‑busting groups
- Support stream and wetland restoration
Every action helps strengthen habitats and helps native species thrive.
Join a Group Near You
Check out specific volunteering opportunities by clicking the links below.
- Friends of the Maitai - Planting and weed control
- Paremata Reserve Restoration Project
- Paremata Flats Weeding Crew
- Brook Waimārama Sanctuary - weeding team
- Weedbusters - Weed control
- Nelson Botanical Society - Plant ID
- The Nelson planting season is typically between June - August every year, keep an eye out for planting days on the Nelson City Council Facebook page.
Advice on Planting and Weed Control
NCC Nelson Nature team provides advice and support for residents, landowners, and community groups working to enhance local biodiversity. Support includes:
- Guidance for native planting and weed control
- Environmental Grants Scheme funding
- Workshops and training opportunities
- Support for riparian restoration and habitat enhancement
- Technical advice for tricky weed issues or larger restoration plans
If you’d like help with a project or need advice on planting or weed management, our team is here to support you.
Contact Nelson Nature: nelson.nature@ncc.govt.nz
Resources for Planting - How, Where, What and Weeds
Use the links below to explore practical resources, tips, and guidance.
How and Where to Plant
What to Plant
- Learn about our Native Plants
- Plant Me Instead - Nelson /Tasman version
- Eco-sourcing Plants
- Nelson Living Heritage Guide
Identifying & Managing Weeds
- Pests: Everyone's Responsibility
- Combating Wilding Conifers
- Weedbusters
- iNaturalist (identifying plants and wildlife)
- National Pest Plant Accord
- Weedbusting: A guide to recognising and controlling invasive weeds
- Controlling Pest Tree Invaders Booklet
- Controlling Pest Shrub Invaders Booklet
- Controlling Pest Vine Invaders Booklet
- Controlling Ground Cover and Grass Invaders Booklet
Other Useful Links
- NZ Plant Conservation Network
- DOC planting and weed control guides
- Predator Free NZ (related habitat care resources)
- Attract birds to your garden: DOC
.
NCC Reserve Planting Days
If you are the kind of person who likes to get involved in something that benefits and beautifies the environment around you, then community plantings are just right for you.
NCC hold community planting days during winter and spring. They include a whenua/placenta planting day and a beach planting day at Tāhunanui. These days will be advertised closer to the time.
Contact parksconnector@ncc.govt.nz for information.
