Why and how we control weeds

Why we control weeds

We manage over 250 species of weeds in the region and control other vegetation.

We do this to:

• protect the indigenous ecosystems and species of Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland
• protect and maintain assets
• maintain infrastructure
• keep people safe
• meet our amenity, safety and environmental goals.

The Regional Pest Management Plan sets out objectives and rules to manage the spread and impact of pest plants across the Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland region.

The Weed Management Policy sets out our objectives for weed management in parks and open spaces, including road corridors.

The policy defines a weed as a plant unwanted in a location.

How we decide on weed control methods

The implementation of this policy is supported by two groups:

• Weed Management Political Advisory Group, who provide oversight on how the policy is being implemented.
• Weed Management Best Practice Reference Group, who provide external technical advice to council as required.

To get in touch with either of these groups, contact us online.

Current weed control methods

We use a range of methods to control different weeds in different environments:

• mechanical
• manual
• high-pressure steam
• hot water
• plant-based herbicide
• synthetic herbicide (including glyphosate)
• biocontrol
• no control (where no weed control is intentionally undertaken).

For more information about these weed control methods, including where and when they are used in Auckland, read our weed control methods document or contact us online.

Weed control projects

Many local boards target specific problem weeds in their areas.

Some recent examples are:

• Howick – mothplant, rhamnus
• Waitakere Ranges – climbing asparagus
• Rodney – climbing asparagus in Takatu.

We also have weed control programmes on the Hauraki Gulf islands and in our regional parks.

Community groups work together in and around local parks.

Join our no-spray register