Creating landscapes that support pollinators is both an ecological responsibility and a design opportunity. Native NZ pollinators such as bees, hoverflies, butterflies, moths and even birds like tūī and korimako are always looking for nectar and pollen in urban areas, and specifiers may wish to integrate plantings that sustain them throughout the year. This article was written as a quick guide for boosting pollinator diversity and supporting keystone species.

Slim™ Callistemon viminalis CV01′ PVR. http://ozbreed.co.nz/plant-ranges/shrubs-and-ground-covers/slim-callistemon/

Plant Diversity is Key

The more diverse the planting palette, the more diverse the pollinators. Aim to include:

• A wide range of flower shapes and sizes – This supports different types of pollinators, from long-tongued native bees to tiny flies and beetles.
  
  
• Varied bloom times – Ensure floral resources are available from early spring to late autumn. This supports pollinator populations across their full lifecycle.
  
  
• A mix of native and non-invasive exotic species – Native plants such as Hebe, Leptospermum scoparium (mānuka), and Phormium species are valuable, but certain introduced species like Westringia, Callistemon and Lomandra can extend seasonal forage.
  
  

Prioritise Nectar and Pollen-rich Plants

Not all flowering plants are equally useful to pollinators. Favour species that produce abundant, accessible nectar and pollen. Avoid double-flowered cultivars, as these often lack functional floral parts or make nectar inaccessible.

Plant in Masses

Group the same species in clumps or drifts. This makes it easier for pollinators to forage efficiently, reducing energy expenditure and increasing pollination success across the site.

Minimise Pesticide Use

Avoid using pesticides wherever possible, especially during flowering periods. If absolutely necessary, opt for spot treatments and apply in the early morning or evening when pollinators are less active. Choose the least harmful viable option first, which is usually white oil (vegetable oil, dish soap and water). At the end of the day, biodiverse gardens are inherently pest-resilient to some degree once they establish, so there may be a waiting period as the ecosystem becomes more complex with natural enemies of pests.

Learn about Integrated Pest Management (IPM) here. https://www.ozbreed.com.au/garden-pest-control/

Provide Shelter and Nesting Habitat

Pollinator-friendly gardens aren’t only about flowers. Incorporate elements like:

• Undisturbed areas of bare ground for ground-nesting bees.
  
  
• Hollow stems and dead wood for cavity nesters.
  
  
• Shrubs and tussocks to offer wind protection and safe roosting sites.
  
  

Include a Water Source

A shallow dish of water with stones or floating corks gives pollinators a place to rest and hydrate. Ensure it is refreshed regularly to avoid mosquito breeding.

Final Thoughts for Specifiers

Pollinator-supportive design enhances biodiversity, resilience, and ecological function across urban and rural projects. By selecting the right plants and creating welcoming microhabitats, you’ll be fostering essential pollination services while enriching the sensory and aesthetic value of the space.

Learn more about the ecology of:

Callistemon https://ozbreed.co.nz/are-callistemon-beneficial-for-nz-wildlife-pollinators-and-more/

Westringia https://ozbreed.co.nz/are-westringia-beneficial-for-nz-wildlife-pollinators-and-more/

Viburnum https://ozbreed.co.nz/is-viburnum-beneficial-for-nz-wildlife-pollinators-and-more/