ENM provided a response to the Horizons Regional Pest Management Plan in May 2026. A summary of our response is provided below, and our full response can be accessed through our website here. 

While we acknowledge that horticulture and agriculture are key industries within the Horizons region, our members have particular focus on protecting and restoring the biodiversity of wilderness areas. One of the key tenets of wilderness protection and restoration is a coordinated approach to flora and fauna pest management. Our members were particularly concerned by two species:

Phragmites Karka: we acknowledge the research efforts already carried out and would support further study in biological and chemical controls. While research is developing in this area, our members stressed that the priority should be mechanical control due to the ongoing significant spread of this species. 

Deer: ENM and our members support the use of all legal available means to decrease populations of all species of wild deer within the Horizons region.

Our members also noted that there has been little to no public awareness raising of pest plants, the ongoing work to tackle pest species, and what day-to-day actions can be taken by individuals to help. We also noted missed opportunities by PNCC to lead by example when renovating public spaces.  

The membership of Environment Network Manawatū collectively represents hundreds of years of experience in combating invasive plants and animal species in our specific regional biome. We stand as a representative body and a conduit for the knowledge and experience of our membership. As such we hope to be involved in the RPMP review at later stages as appropriate and invite further consultation as would be conducive to the development of an effective, responsive and appropriate 
Regional Pest Management Plan.