City Nature Challenge back for 2024

After a successful outing last year, the City Nature Challenge is back in Kāpiti for 2024.

The City Nature Challenge is an annual international event that encourages people around the world to find and record wildlife in their cities, districts or regions.

Areas compete to see which one can log the most nature observations on iNaturalist, an app that allows you to record what you see, share your findings, and discuss biodiversity with others.

Photo of an endangered dotterel and chick (credit: Roger Smith)
See larger image.

Districts across the Wellington region have teamed up to turn the community into citizen scientists for a four-day field trip Friday 26–Monday 29 April.

Environment and Ecological Services team leader Andy McKay says the more people who participate in the challenge the better.

“It’s a lot of fun and is a great way of gaining biodiversity information that will actually be used,” Mr McKay says.

“We want to know where plants and animals are being found in Kāpiti.

“It can be good or not-so-good species – we’re keen to know if there are any special plants or animals around, or where weeds are to help inform our weed control programmes.

“It’s also a great way for the community to actively connect with nature and the environment, and see how unique the biodiversity in Kāpiti is, and how and why it is all worth protecting.”

Mr McKay says people can record information anywhere in Kāpiti, but any captured around the Waikanae Awa would be especially appreciated.

Get involved

It’s easy to get involved using the free iNaturalist app – download on the AppStore | download on Google Play

Just join the Wellington City Nature Challenge group and log sightings of wild plants, creatures, or organisms, living or dead, on the land, in the sea, from the coast to the hills, and even in your backyard.

Observations made between 12am Friday 26 April and up to 11.59pm Monday 29 April 2024 will count for the City Nature Challenge.

What’s happening in Kāpiti?

Join us at the following events:

• Online iNaturalist training session, 5-6pm on Wednesday 24 April.
• In person mini-bioblitz, Saturday 27 April, 10am-12 midday at Edgewater Park, Fleetwood Grove entrance, Waikanae Awa.

Email [email protected] to RSVP for these events, or just turn up on the day. 

If you can't come along to an event don't worry, you can still take part. Just download the iNaturalist app, take photos of the wildlife around you, and upload your observations to the app over the weekend.