The Northland Regional Council has launched a new competition initiative aimed at reducing the spread of moth plant, a highly invasive pest plant throughout Taitokerau.

The competition encourages individuals or teams to collect moth plant pods, vines and seedlings, with cash prizes up for grabs.

Northland Regional Councillor and Chair of the Biodiversity and Biosecurity Working Party, Jack Craw says the point-based competition will help put the spotlight on this problematic pest and reduce its spread, helping to protect native species which often fall victim to the smothering vine.

"Not only do participants get the chance to win cash, they are also being environmental heros by helping us fight the war on weeds one pod or vine at a time.

Every pod collected will prevent up to 1000 seeds from being released and spread through the wind. Participants will also get extra points for pulling out moth plant seedlings and vines with the roots intact, preventing them from producing pods in future."

The competition awards one point per pod collected and three points for every vine/seedling with roots intact. Cash prizes include $500 for first place, $300 for second place, and $200 for third place, plus several Prezzy Card spot prizes are also available.

Once registered, participants will be advised of the safety precautions to follow to protect their eyes, skin and clothes from the harmful moth plant sap, and how to dispose of the pods responsibly.

Local competitions of this nature have been previously organised by schools and community groups and NRC is excited to be part of a region-wide competition for Northland.

To register visit www.nrc.govt.nz/mothplantcomp

For further questions please email mothplantcomp@nrc.govt.nz or call us on 0800 002 004 and ask to speak to the Moth Plant Competition coordinator.

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