Here’s something you didn’t know about Wellington: that in the middle of the city there is a large, private area of 12 ha where butterflies and moths are actively encouraged!

The Moths and Butterflies of NZ Trust (MBNZT) is elated to think that this area is so close to the Beehive, an area where minimal pesticides are used and butterflies and moths are encouraged and valued.

The location is Government House, at the foot of Mt Victoria.

“New Zealand’s beautiful butterflies and moths are struggling because of development, pesticide use and introduced wasps,” said Maurice Mehlhopt, Chairman of the MBNZT. “We are thrilled to be adding Government House to our list of gardens and habitats which actively foster flowers for nectar and host plants for Lepidoptera.”

“I am delighted that Government House grounds provide a safe environment for Lepidoptera” said His Excellency Dr Richard Davies. “I hope this recognition by MBNZT will encourage more people to consider how they can create a similar haven in their own gardens”.

The grounds have been maintained by Bark Ltd for over 25 years to create a sustainable garden environment with the ecological well-being of the property being at the forefront of all garden management decisions.

“The gardens are managed in a manner that encourages and nurtures plant and insect diversity while maintaining the grounds at a standard befitting Government House,” said Andrew Jensen, Regional Manager of Bark. “We are proud and excited that this recognition further reinforces our dedication to these principles.”

Landowners, schools, community groups, and councils across the country are invited to gain recognition for creating and maintaining high-quality butterfly and moth habitats.

First launched in August 2009, this MBNZT project acknowledges spaces that meet rigorous ecological standards. Certificated sites display a distinctive plaque, are publicly profiled, and inspire more people to plant butterfly-friendly habitat nationwide.

To qualify, a garden or habitat must be an outdoor space established for at least 2–3 years; provide evergreen shelter trees to the south and full sun on the northern side; contain host plants for at least three different Lepidoptera species; support nectar plants year-round and use natural methods to discourage predators and parasites.

The MBNZT was founded twenty years ago with the vision to ensure that Aotearoa New Zealand's ecosystems support thriving moth and butterfly populations. Its mission is to engage with New Zealanders to ensure New Zealand’s biodiversity promotes thriving moth and butterfly populations.

© Scoop Media