VIDEO - Toxic invader gains new Far North beach foothold

The threat of the highly invasive and toxic weed, sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias) to Aotearoa New Zealand’s coastline has increased with the discovery of another infestation on Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe - Ninety-Mile Beach near Pukenui. The one-acre site is the second largest to be discovered - the biggest is near Mitimiti about 100kms down the coast.
Sea spurge is hostile to almost all other flora and fauna – nothing can eat it, nest in it, or co-exist next to it. In this video, Ceres Sharp and Candace Rameka from Northland Regional Council, and Niki Conrad, Pou Takawaenga Taiao/Environmental Manager for Te Aupōuri iwi investigate the Pukenui site. Locals and visitors to the beach are being urged to contact the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Hotline - 0800 80 99 66 - to report any sea spurge found on or near sand dunes and tidal pools along the west coast.
People are advised not to touch or dig up the plants, as each plant can spread thousands of seeds and contact with its sap can cause serious health issues for humans and animals. Once notified, MPI and the Northland Regional Council will ensure the controlled removal of the plants and monitor sites for any unwanted new growth. Please watch the video below that explains what to do if you find sea spurge.