Moth Plant Pod Competition 2026 – Howick

About this Event

Languages: English, Mandarin

The Howick Moth Plant Competition 2026, led by Pest Free Howick, is back for another year — and the community is once again invited to take action for te taiao.

Running from 2 March to 8 May 2026, the competition challenges participants to help control moth plant, one of Auckland’s most damaging invasive vines. By removing moth plant pods and seedlings, participants directly protect native plants, reduce future spread, and support healthier ecosystems across the Howick area.

There are three competition categories:

• ECE – early childhood centres enter as a whole

• Schools – primary and secondary schools enter as a whole

• Community – open to community teams of up to 10 people

Participants earn points by safely collecting moth plant pods and seedlings, with all efforts contributing to a collective impact far greater than any one group could achieve alone. Along the way, competitors learn how to identify moth plant, understand why it’s a threat, and see how small actions can lead to meaningful environmental change.

With $5,000 in prizes up for grabs, the competition is designed to be fun, educational, and empowering — turning weed control into a shared challenge that brings people together while making a real difference for native biodiversity in Howick.