Know the law: some plants are off-limits!

Not all plants are safe to grow, trade, or share in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Some are illegal because they pose a serious threat to our environment, economy and native species

The National Pest Plan Accord (NPPA)

The National Pest Plant Accord (NPPA) is a nationwide agreement that bans the sale, propagation, and distribution of certain pest plants.

These plants are officially classified as Unwanted Organisms under the Biosecurity Act 1993, which means you can’t sell or give them away, move them between locations or grow or propagate them.

What if you already have one?

If you have a NPPA-listed plant in your garden, you don’t have to remove it, but you cannot propagate, gift or relocate it.

If you no longer want it, dispose of it responsibly either in your home compost if it is safe to do so or take it to an approved landfill. See the disposing of weed waste page for more tips.

Want to learn more about which plants are on the banned list? Check out the official list for a full breakdown here

Spot an invasive weed? Report it immediately!

New Zealand’s environment, economy, and cultural heritage are at risk from some of the world’s worst weeds. The National Interest Pest Response Programme (NIPR) is working hard to stop them but needs your help.

There are 9 pest plants in the NIPR programme, the Ministry for Primary Industries works with Regional Councils and the Department of Conservation to get rid of or control them.

It is your responsibility to report these species—every sighting makes a difference and could prevent a major infestation. If you spot any of the following, you must call MPI’s Pest and Disease Hotline at 0800 80 99 66 right away:

Salvinia (Kariba weed) • Water hyacinth • Manchurian wild rice • Cape tulip • Pyp grass • Phragmites • Hydrilla • White bryony • Johnson grass

Your quick action today can help protect New Zealand for years to come.