High value areas

Why do we need them?

Through our Long-Term Plan 2018–2028 consultation process, Northland communities supported our proposal to significantly increase funding for pest control activities across Northland. But we can’t do all this work on our own, so the concept of “High Value Areas” (HVA) was established.

What are they?

A “High Value Area” is a geographic area of Northland where high biodiversity and recreational values are matched with strong community interest in pest control. Our staff provide advice and funding to help local communities in these areas with their pest control work.

Each “High Value Area” has an on the ground “Working Group” with landowners, members from the local community and representatives from other stakeholders such as local Landcare groups, iwi and agencies. These working groups help to ensure funding is allocated to appropriate pest control activities and priorities within each high value area and is detailed in a high value area pest management plan.

What progress has been made so far?

For each of these areas a Working Group, Terms of Reference and Project Plan are being developed. Whangārei Heads already has a Working Group and Project Plan whilst the others are still in the process of setting these up.

How can I get involved?

If you live in one of these areas and want to get involved in pest control in your local area, please contact our Biosecurity team and we can put you in touch with the right people.

Email: [email protected] | Freephone: 0800 002 004

Where are the high value areas?

This area is rich in coastal shrublands that support high kiwi densities and threatened species.
The Whangārei Heads High Value Area is a landscape with unique landforms and ecological gems.
The Tutukaka area provides habitat for iconic species such as kiwi and pateke (brown teal).
Spanning more than 22,374ha, this area is home to three threatened and 11 regionally significant plant species.
This area has a fast-recovering ecology including rare and threatened plant species.