Sustaining and restoring our environment

Biodiversity is central to what sustains us: it is the life on which our lives depend. Although New Zealand was one of the last places on earth to be settled by humans, it has one of the worst records of native biodiversity loss.

Isolated for so long, New Zealand became home to many 'endemic' (found only in New Zealand) and unusual species which were completely unprepared for the sudden arrival of competitors and predators.

Rohe | District

Biodiversity loss

The scale and rate of biodiversity loss in Kāpiti is typical of other districts throughout the country. Several hundred years of human settlement, and associated habitat destruction and over-exploitation, have had an enormous effect on our environment.

Rohe | District

Restoring our environment

There is strong impetus to protect our remaining biodiversity and local government and communities have an important part to play in helping prevent the loss of native species. Increasing numbers of Kāpiti residents are working to enhance our biodiversity.

Rohe | District

Pest plants and animals

Pests damage our indigenous plants and animals, making it more difficult for them to thrive and survive.