Keep your eyes peeled for sea spurge this summer
When you're out and about this summer, look out for the invasive weed sea spurge.
Sea spurge invades the shores just above the high tide mark, disrupts sand dunes, and stops native plants from being able to grow.
The fast spreading weed can ravage a whole area in a short space of time.
The Department of Conservation and the Ministry for Primary Industries have urged people to report any sightings.
Its sap is toxic to humans and animals and can cause skin irritations, or temporary blindness if you get it in your eyes.
So don't try to remove it if you do spot it.
Sea spurge looks like a small shrub which can grow up to about half a metre high.
It has multiple steams which are reddish at the base and spiky, tightly packed blue/green leaves and greenish flowers.
What to do this summer if you think you've found sea spurge:
Don't disturb the sea spurge plants as it could spread the seeds.
Don't cut sea spurge or try to remove it; its sap is toxic.
Take a photo of the location and a close-up of the plants.
Try and get your location as accurate as possible and note it down.
Call the MPI exotic pest line on 0800 80 99 66.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15% ... It is complicated
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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