A major community effort is underway to tackle invasive privet in Whaingaroa, with volunteers invited to join the Great Whaingaroa Privet Bust-Up on Saturday, 22 February. The event runs from 10am to 12pm, followed by a BBQ at Papahua by the boat ramp as a thank-you to those taking part.
Privet is a highly invasive pest plant that spreads rapidly and can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. To combat its spread, volunteers will work across three sites:
Between Greenslade Road and Lorenzen Bay
Robert Street in town
The focus will be on three key methods:
Drilling and filling large trees (volunteers are encouraged to bring a drill and a 10–14mm wood bit).
Cutting and pasting smaller trees (a pruning saw is recommended).
Hand-pulling seedlings where possible.Herbicide will be used as part of the control efforts.
Volunteers should wear long pants, long sleeves, and sturdy footwear, and bring gloves, a drill, or a saw if they have one. Some tools will be available on-site, and any offers to lend extra equipment are welcomed.
The event is set to receive a major boost, with over 100 volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints joining the effort. Organisers hope locals will also roll up their sleeves to help.
A safety briefing and instructions will take place at 10am sharp at each site, before volunteers break into smaller groups led by experienced guides.
With a strong turnout, organisers hope this will make a real impact on controlling privet in Whaingaroa.
For planning purposes and directions, participants are asked to email whaingaroaweedbusters@gmail.com if they are attending or have tools to lend.
When: Saturday 22nd February 10am-12 followed by a BBQ (supplied) at Papahua by the boat ramp.
*Bring your own gloves, drill and saw if you have one. Some tools will be available. (Any offers to lend gratefully accepted.)
