Aerial glyphosate spraying resumed in Auckland’s protected Te Henga wetlands, sparking backlash over environmental risks and lack of transparency.

Aerial drone spraying of glyphosate herbicide resumed in Auckland’s Te Henga wetlands, a protected area home to endangered species like the long-tailed bat and Australasian bittern, despite an ongoing Environment Court appeal. The spraying, part of a three-year willow removal program, has drawn criticism from conservation groups over ecological risks, lack of transparency, and insufficient public consultation. Concerns include spray drift, water contamination, and harm to non-target species, with Flora and Fauna of Aotearoa calling for an immediate halt, full disclosure, and independent review. The move has reignited tensions over environmental management and government accountability.