Public Spaces Project

Creating pollinator-friendly public places across Aotearoa

Our parks, streets, reserves and gardens shape the health of our environment — not just for people, but for butterflies, moths and other vital pollinators. Our Public Spaces Project advocates for more pollinator-friendly practices in public places, encouraging councils and communities to rethink how our shared spaces are planted and maintained.

With small but thoughtful changes, public spaces can become thriving habitats that support native biodiversity, improve ecological resilience, and enhance the beauty and wellbeing of our towns and cities.

Why this project matters

Butterflies, moths and other pollinators are essential to healthy ecosystems. Yet many public spaces prioritise ornamental plantings, frequent mowing and chemical control, which can unintentionally reduce food sources and habitat for insects.

Across Aotearoa, communities are increasingly concerned about:

• The dominance of introduced plant species that provide little benefit to native insects.

• The widespread use of pesticides and herbicides in public areas.

• The loss of flowering plants and “wild” spaces that pollinators rely on for nectar, shelter and breeding.

At the same time, councils are showing genuine interest in finding practical ways to support biodiversity within urban and rural landscapes. The Public Spaces Project exists to support that momentum and turn good intentions into meaningful action.

Our vision

We envision public spaces that:

• Provide abundant nectar and host plants for butterflies, moths and pollinators.

• Maintain healthy, connected habitats rather than overly manicured landscapes.

• Reduce chemical inputs where possible.

• Balance human use with ecological responsibility.

By working collaboratively with councils, community groups and residents, we aim to demonstrate that pollinator-friendly spaces are achievable, attractive and cost-effective.

What we advocate for

The Public Spaces Project promotes practical, evidence-based actions, including:

🌼 Planting more nectar and host plants

Increasing the use of flowering plants — especially native species — that provide food and breeding habitat for insects throughout the year.

🌿 No-mow and low-mow areas

Allowing selected areas of parks, berms and reserves to grow longer supports flowering plants, improves soil health and creates shelter for insects.

🐝 Reducing pest pressure

Supporting efforts to control invasive species, particularly introduced wasps that compete with and prey on native insects.

🚫 Minimising pesticide use

Encouraging careful review and reduction of chemical spraying in public spaces wherever safe and practical alternatives exist.

Community action in practice

The project actively supports individuals and communities who want to advocate for pollinator-friendly spaces locally. For example:

• We are supporting a young ecology student in Hamilton who is working to retain a no-mow berm to demonstrate how letting nature grow benefits urban insects. His message is simple: “Plant native, mow less and smarter, and stop spraying. Keep some corners wild.”

• We have assisted residents who wish to protect important butterfly host plants, such as swan plants growing along roadsides, by liaising with councils in an official capacity.

These local actions show how small changes can collectively make a big difference.

Working with councils

Many councils are keen to explore ways to enhance biodiversity in public spaces but benefit from access to specialist knowledge, community feedback and practical guidance. The Public Spaces Project provides:

• Information on pollinator-friendly planting and management.

• Community liaison and advocacy support.

• Opportunities for shared learning between councils, experts and residents.

We believe collaboration — not criticism — is the most effective way to create lasting environmental change.

How you can get involved

• Advocate locally: Talk with your council about pollinator-friendly planting, mowing practices and chemical use.

• Protect important plants: Help safeguard nectar and host plants in your neighbourhood.

• Share knowledge: Encourage others to understand the value of butterflies, moths and pollinators in public spaces.

• Partner with us: Councils, schools and community groups are welcome to connect with the project.

Together, we can transform our public spaces into living landscapes that support biodiversity, strengthen ecosystems, and inspire communities across Aotearoa. 🦋🌱