Weed spraying
Each year Council periodically sprays to control vegetation on its road reserve areas, within water channels and side drains, parks, reserves and pavements.
This helps keep our local network tidy and ensures our services like drains are well maintained and free flowing. The operational area includes the entire Horowhenua district local road network, excluding State Highways.
We maintain this to keep our open spaces tidy and at a standard that our community and our staff can feel proud of. Where appropriate we identify areas where we don’t spray and spray less often.
Tracks and reserves
Our walking and coastal tracks are popular attractions for both locals and visitors to Horowhenua. The tracks are frequently used by walkers, runners, and cyclists. To maintain the tracks, we spray the edges to remove any invasive weeds. This practice not only keeps the paths safe for users but also extends the lifespan of these assets and reduces ongoing maintenance needs.
In some areas, larger invasive plants near tracks, walkways, and reserves may require removal as a preventive measure to stop them from encroaching on pathways. For hard surface paths like concrete or asphalt, it's crucial to keep them free from any potentially slippery materials to ensure user safety.
Gardens
Horowhenua boasts many beautiful and unique gardens that the community enjoys, whether passing by on foot or by car.
Spraying in these areas helps eliminate unwanted plants and weeds, ensuring that the growth of flowers and desired plants is prioritised.
Cemeteries
Manakau Cemetery, The Avenue, Old Levin, Foxton, and Shannon Cemeteries are significant sites for our community.
Our Open Spaces maintenance team use spraying to keep these areas free of weeds and well-maintained. This work includes caring for pathways, open grass areas, and gardens to ensure these sites remain clean and tidy.
Play spaces and fenced dog exercise areas
Spraying in playgrounds is focused on treating wooden structures to remove moss, mould, and lichen, ensuring the safety of these surfaces. If left unchecked, the build-up can become slippery and pose a hazard.
We conduct inspections and treat affected areas as needed. In addition, we use a thermal weed treatment, which utilises hot water, to control weeds in playgrounds and fenced dog exercise areas.