Trade in your weeds for free native trees

Ngaruawahia Weedbusters is declaring war on weeds and providing an extra incentive for locals to spring clean their gardens.



The group is planning a week amnesty to reward Ngaruawahia people for clearing weeds out of their backyards this month.



“Fill your rubbish sack with wandering Jew, woolly nightshade, wild ginger, privet, jasmine, ivy or Japanese honeysuckle and Weedbusters will swap it for native plants,” regional Weedbusters coordinator Wendy Mead said.



“Just bring your weeds to the Jesmond St markets on Saturday, October 27 or Waikato District Council’s Ngaruawahia offices during the week beginning October 29 – but get in quick because the offer is only available while stocks last.”



Environment Waikato, the Department of Conservation and Waikato District Council (WDC) are supporting the campaign.



“Environmental weeds are one of the biggest threats to New Zealand’s native plants and animals,” Ms Mead said.



“In this country we have approximately 2000 introduced species that have gone wild. By getting out in your backyard and getting rid of weeds and disposing of them properly, you’re helping to protect New Zealand’s native biodiversity.



“Getting rid of weeds in Ngaruawahia helps protect our Waikato River and the great work Waikato River Care is doing to replant and restore the river banks.”



If you are paying a visit to the WDC officers, check out the weed display.