Conservation of Chatham Island flora and vegetation

Originally written in 1984. Reprinted with amendments March 1985.
Most of the botanically important localities on main Chatham Island were visited in January 1982, 10 years after the last survey. The affinities and state of depletion of the vegetation and flora is described. 37 vascular plant taxa are endemic, a degree unparalleled in any area of similar size elsewhere in the New Zealand region. Half the endemic flora, which dominates the native vegetation, is under threat according to IUCN classification and are inadequately reserved. An account of each taxon is given. 13 vegetation types are outlined, with their relative importance to endemic taxa, their conservation status, and their representation in existing and proposed reserves. Most vegetation types are poorly represented in existing reserves. 21 areas are described, including two reserves and six pending reservation. Security for Chatham Island vegetation and flora is dependant on reserving a large area of the Southern Tablelands and coastal cliffs, of diverse vegetation, and lowland peat domes with Sporadanthus traversii - Olearia semidentata rush-shrublands. Additional ways to assist conservation on Chatham Island are suggested, e.g. cultivation. It is important to conserve native vegetation and plants on main Chatham Island because of its accessiblity compared with secure smaller islands in the group. (auths)