Kaikōura Vines-Free Project

30/03/2024

https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/350229442/sawflies-released-marlborough-suppress-old-mans-beard

The biocontrol agents have been put to work at Rarangi’s Hinepango wetlands to suppress the spread of old man’s beard.

17/01/2023

At the end of last year Ants, owner of local company, Hemingway's Predator Control and Noxious W**d Control, worked on a property in the Oaro area in the Hundalees by State Highway 1. The area has long established banana passionfruit going back to the 1960’s. Historically, this area was one of a few places in Oaro where this vine became established. Now this invasive vine has spread extensively throughout the Oaro Valley (particularly along the state highway) and neighbouring areas.

As can be imagined the task of treating such an established area of vines was massive with such a thick concentration of intertwined vines and root systems. To date Ants has pulled over 200 complete root systems and 300 vines. Due to the ground being wet he was able to follow many vines back and pull them out of the ground and has cut and pasted 1020 plants, including an area of old granddad aged old man’s beard vines.

02/10/2022

A huge thank you to the UC Student Volunteer Army for coming to Kaikoura this weekend. An inspiring group of 15 students worked with the Vines Free group on Dempsey's track cutting and treating invasive plants. Thanks to Kaikoura District Council for supporting us and Encounter Cafe for the yummy morning tea!