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Some of the latest technology is helping ensure some of Franklin’s original residents, survive and thrive.
Auckland Council is expanding the use of drone technology, which is already proving its worth in protecting native species.
This will modernise the delivery of more services, council’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee chair (and Franklin Ward Councillor) Andy Baker explains.
“We’re seeing benefits across a range of council activities, from environmental management and emergency response through to planning and asset monitoring. This is an example of how innovation can improve services, reduce costs and increase safety for staff and communities,” he says.
“Drone technology is proving to be a smart investment for Auckland. It allows us to gather better information, access difficult locations, respond faster to issues and make more effective use of ratepayer funding.”
Council has 18 Civil Aviation Authority-certified drone pilots and recently appointed a chief pilot for drone operations.
In particular, council’s Environmental Services department has been using drones since 2019 to help manage and protect ecosystems and native species.
The department’s projects cover everything from pekapeka (native bat) and matukuhūrepo (Australasian bittern) monitoring to thermal surveys for pests, kauri dieback surveillance and high-resolution aerial mapping to detect pest plants.
“This is a practical tool that helps us better manage and protect native species, monitor environmental change and target resources [for] the greatest impact,” department GM, Samantha Hill says.
“Drones are helping us see more, sooner and with less impact on the environments we are working to protect. They allow teams to monitor sensitive habitats, respond to emerging threats and to make better-informed decisions about where to focus effort and investment.
“The better the information, the better we can protect native biodiversity, respond to threats and invest in work that will make the biggest difference for Auckland’s natural environment.”
