Ecological restoration at selected sites on the New Zealand mainland; a review

Abstract

A review of activities and results at six Department of Conservation mainland restoration projects was undertaken in order to evaluate their progress in relation to ecosystem-focused restoration goals. Controlling introduced pests (particularly suites of mammals) is a core activity at each project, with significant progress towards pest control objectives having been recorded. A wider range of pests has been reduced to lower densities, and for longer periods than has normally been the case in pest control operations elsewhere in New Zealand. Changes in monitored ecological parameters such as vegetation condition and survival rates of vulnerable birds have been attributed to pest control activities. In some cases preliminary ecological outcomes have been related to restoration goals. Progress has also been recorded in enhancing stakeholder support for these projects and in developing biodiversity management capacity through field trials and applied research. In addition to highlighting key features of these projects, and their importance in advancing ecosystem-focused restoration activities in New Zealand, a number of recommendations for consideration by the Department are appended. Central to these recommendations is a conclusion that a more rigorous scientific approach is needed if strong inferences are to be obtained to underpin management decisions.