Get in quick for free weed workshops

Northlanders keen to learn more about some of the worst weeds threatening our region – and how best to tackle them – are being urged to register now for one of a series of free workshops.
The three-hour workshops in Kaitaia, Kerikeri and Whangarei will be run by the Northland Regional Council in late-August.

"The workshops are for people who have wondered which weed is which, why weeds ‘wander’ and what spray works on which weed," organiser Sara Brill says.

Ms Brill, a biosecurity officer with the regional council, says each workshop will include a short presentation, hands-on identification tips and information on control options, including chemicals and other methods.

Among the 20-plus weeds covered will be some of Northland’s worst - including wild ginger, lantana and moth plant.

The council will hold two workshops in Kaitaia on Wednesday 24 August at the Far North District Council offices in Redan Rd and another two workshops in Kerikeri the following day at Kingston House, Hone Heke Rd.

Ms Brill says both days will feature a separate morning (9am-noon) and afternoon (1-4pm) session, with numbers limited to about 15-20 people at each.

Workshops will also be held in Whangarei at the regional council’s Water St office on Friday 26 (again with separate morning and afternoon sessions) and end with a final morning session on Saturday 27 August

Ms Brill says up to 30 people will be able to attend each of those sessions, but with a good level of interest already shown, she’s urging potential attendees to pre-register quickly for any of the workshops they’re interested in to avoid missing out on the day.

“We won’t be able to take any registrations on the day and it would be a shame to have to turn people away.”

People keen to register should contact Sara Brill at the Northland Regional Council on (0800) 002 004.

Ms Brill says more information on pests in Northland is available from the council’s website at: www.nrc.govt.nz/pestmanagement