Warming winters are changing NZ’s landscapes, bringing insect pests, smaller fruit and carbon loss
Warmer winters mean insect pests like wasps will likely spread further, while weedy plants and rats invade alpine zones, shrinking the refuge for endangered birds.
Cate Macinnis-Ng, Professor in Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau·Jun 10, 2026