Assessing threat levels This page shows how the threat to indigenous biodiversity can be assessed according to the indigenous vegetation cover that remains. ..

Canterbury's most threatened Examples of some of Canterbury’s rarest and most threatened species, describing where they typically occur. ..

Aotearoa New Zealand is a pretty special place. We have a huge number of endemic species (species found only in New Zealand). For example all our bat, amphibian and reptile species, over 80% of our native plants and at least 70% of our birds are endemic. If any of these species become extinct they are lost forever from New Zealand and the world.

Native plant and animal species are vulnerbale to the impact of humans and the new species we bring with us. Extinctions caused by humans began over 750 years ago, first with the arrival of Maori ancestors who hunted native species and brought kiore (the Polynesian rat), and the dog. Later, the arrival of Europeans increased the rate of extinctions as they introduced  many new plants and animals, as well as bringing about major habitat change through clearing forests and draining wetlands.

As in the rest of New Zealand, there have been significant losses in indigenous biodiversity in Canterbury. In the past this has occurred through the removal and modification of habitat as a result of extensive deforestation, burning, drainage, settlement and development.

More recently, intensified farming or forestry and the creation of new residential, commercial and industrial areas has accelerated habitat loss and magnified the threat to indigenous wildlife. In some parts of Canterbury introduced animal and plant pests, most notably rabbits, possums and wilding conifers also have an impact on biodiversity. Environment Canterbury works closely with the community and other partners under the Regional Pest Management Strategy to control and manage pests such as these by undertaking small-scale management programmes.

To illustrate how much Canterbury’s environment has been impacted; in an area that was covered in extensive swamps, little original wetland habitat remains, over 90% of wetland area has been lost. The once mighty podocarp forests and the wildlife they supported are now reduced to isolated pockets.

But it’s not all bad news. An increasing awareness of the importance of biodiversity and a willingness to reverse the decline has given us a new focus on biodiversity. More strategic thinking, money and expertise than ever before are being invested in protecting and restoring Canterbury’s biodiversity. Perhaps as important, private landowners are increasingly showing their commitment by supporting and initiating biodiversity projects throughout the region.