Category 1
What are two types of ecosystems?
Forests/ Wetlands/ Marine
What is deforestation?
The clearing or thinning of forests by humans.
What is an invasive species?
A non-native species that spreads and harms native ecosystems.
What is one local project students took part in to restore ecosystems?
Tree planting (reforestation at the back of SC01).
Name one way land is currently used in Porirua that has led to deforestation.
Housing, farming, urban development.
Name two physical features of Porirua’s environment.
Examples: rainfall, temperature, soil type, rivers, estuaries, wind speed, pH of water.
Name one invasive plant in Porirua.
Examples: gorse, old man’s beard, wilding pines.
Name one type of native tree that might be planted in Porirua.
Examples: kōwhai, tōtara, mānuka.
Give one example of a native tree, one bird, and one fish found in Porirua.
Tree: kānuka; Bird: tūī; Fish: whitebait (students can name others).
How does deforestation affect soil health?
Leads to erosion, nutrient loss, chemical pollution, and unstable soils.
Why were invasive plants originally brought to New Zealand?
For farming, gardening, or erosion control.
Why is replanting riparian zones (riverbanks) important?
It reduces sedimentation, prevents erosion, and improves water quality.
How does deforestation increase sedimentation in waterways?
Without trees, more surface run-off carries soil and sediment into rivers and harbours.
What must every food web have?
At least one producer, two primary consumers, and a secondary consumer.
How do invasive plants affect the regrowth of forests?
They compete with native plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients, preventing regeneration.
What resources or people might be needed for restoration projects?
Community groups, council, tools, plants, funding.
What do you think Porirua’s ecosystems look like 100–200 years ago compared to today?
They were mostly forested, with rich biodiversity; today, much of the land is cleared for housing, farmland, and development.
Explain how stormwater pollution affects waterways.
Run-off carries chemicals, rubbish, and pollutants into rivers and estuaries, harming ecosystems.
Name one invasive mammal in NZ forests and its impact.
Possums – eat native trees and birds’ eggs; Rats – prey on birds, insects, and seeds.
What challenges could you face in restoring an ecosystem, and how might you solve them?
Challenges: weeds, pests, lack of funding; Solutions: pest control, ongoing maintenance, fundraising.