‘Weed warriors’ tackle growth at Heads lookout

 

The view from the Mangawhai Heads Beach lookout is enjoyed by hundreds of people every year but to get there they walk past a thicket of weeds on all sides.

Many will be unaware of these plant pests but there is a keen group of local weed warriors who plan to make a difference very soon.

The Piroa-Brynderwyns Weed Action (PBWA) group has been formed to protect the integrity of native flora around the Brynderwyns and surrounding area. Raising awareness about weeds within the Mangawhai, Langs Beach and Waipu communities is a key 
strategy to achieve this. Last November some 25 locals attended a meeting to kick start weed awareness around Mangawhai.

Their wish to take action is being met later this month at a weed-busting event near the lookout at Mangawhai Heads organised by PBWA. “There is an array of weeds on the lookout hill behind the surf club, and at the beginning of the Goldschmidt track, which are infiltrating our stunning beach landscape,” says Nancy Halse, PBWA coordinator.

“They include pampas, gorse, moth plant, climbing dock and wild ginger. We want to see these weeds gone and invite the Mangawhai community to help get rid of them.” The event will be held on Sunday March 24, 9-11am. Halse says there will be two aspects to the morning. “The first part will cover health and safety, introduce the weeds, outline methods of control and answer questions. We will then get cracking on weed removal which will be done via hand control.”

The event provides a great opportunity to help out the native flora that make Mangawhai so special. It will also provide information for the community to become weed aware and to acquire some knowledge on how to tackle weeds with as little adverse environmental impact as possible. Meet at 9am on the grass area near the entrance to the track to the lookout at the Mangawhai Heads beach carpark.

Gloves and tools will be provided but people can bring their own if they wish. Drinking water and a sun hat also recommended.

n For more information contact Belinda Vernon 027 557 0845 or Nancy Halse 021 321 017.