Educational resources

Identifying weeds

iNaturalist is our recommended option for suggesting plant ids. iNaturalist is a free, public platform for recording observations of nature. When you make an observation, it will automatically suggest potential species. Once submitted and positively identified by a human, your plant observations will then flow into SWAT through GBIF.

The following tools may help with identifications:

Key to the weed species (Manaaki Whenua)
Key to Cotoneaster species (Manaaki Whenua)
Key to indigenous and naturalised Carex in New Zealand (Manaaki Whenua)
Key to willow species and hybrids (Manaaki Whenua)
Wilding conifer quick ID guide (2023)

Managing weeds

See individual species pages for control and management information. Coverage varies between species. Control information is not available for every plant.

If you find a problem weed on your property, make a plan for tackling it. Weeds love cleared areas, so it is best to start small.

The following guides may help with managing weeds:

New Zealand weeds database (Massey University) - agricultural and horticultural weeds
Weed control methods (DOC)
Investigating weeds in your green space (DOC)
Weed management field course (Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology)
Weed Biocontrol – What's New? (Manaaki Whenua)

Avoiding weeds

Find out what the problem weeds are in your area and learn how to identify them. For help, check Weedbusters or your local or regional council website.

Choose garden plants that do not spread, or plant natives instead. About 75% of New Zealand's environmental weeds were once garden plants.

Dispose of weeds responsibly, so they do not spread. Cover loads of garden waste when you transport them. Never dump weeds or garden waste near natural areas, waterways, roadsides or vacant land. Seeds or plant material can establish and spread there.

Identifying weeds

Managing weeds

Avoiding weeds

Other weedy articles