Facing the Tsunami – Invasive Weeds, Our Biggest Biodiversity Threat - Talk with Geoff Reid

Many of us will know or know of Geoff Reid – he is a local restoration consultant, photographer, and environmental communicator with over a decade of experience working across our country to support ecological resilience. His work focuses on pest plant control (including across our Gulf and Kawau islands), forest regeneration, and the use of drone technology to improve outcomes in challenging or sensitive terrain.

Geoff has played a leading role in numerous environmental campaigns — helping to expose harmful land use, defend threatened ecosystems, and shift public awareness around biodiversity loss and freshwater decline. He was instrumental in bringing national attention to destructive winter grazing practices, often called “mud farming,” and uses strong visual storytelling to highlight the challenges facing our natural environment.

As the founder of Island Solutions, Geoff leads a team using drones to map and control invasive weeds in high-value conservation areas. His current focus is on raising awareness of the invasive weed crisis and the urgent need for coordinated action to protect our native ecosystems.

Facing the Tsunami: Invasive Weeds – Our Biggest Biodiversity Threat

Invasive weeds are advancing across our country like a biological tsunami — overwhelming forests, wetlands, and alpine landscapes at alarming speed. These aggressive species displace native plants, disrupt ecosystems, and threaten the future of our wild places.

In this urgent and visually engaging talk, restoration specialist Geoff Reid will share insights from the frontlines of invasive weed control. Geoff will highlight why this threat demands immediate attention and why communities and individuals play a vital role in responding.

Drawing on campaign experience, drone operations, and ecological restoration work, Geoff will paint a clear picture of what’s at stake — and why acting now matters for the survival of our native biodiversity.

During the talk, Geoff will share his frontline experiences battling invasive plants, explain why the issue is so urgent, and highlight the role communities can play in helping to safeguard our precious natural areas. Whether you’re a landowner, conservation volunteer,

or simply care about the future of our environment, this talk will offer valuable insights and practical ideas for action.

Find out more about Geoff here - https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=geoff+reid&mid=B26535028E2B649043B9B26535028E2B649043B9&FORM=VIRE

- Venue - Warkworth Hotel 9 Queen Street, Warkworth, New Zealand

- Around the back and UPSTAIRS

- Talk 7pm

- Q&A, tea and biscuits

Brought to you by Warkworth Forest & Bird, and Restore Rodney East

Please share with your volunteer and environmental networks

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