We have recently moved to Papamoa to enjoy the beach lifestyle, but have been disappointed to find Onehunga Weed in absolute abundance. It's along all of the grass edgings, including areas around the beach and as well as parks and reserves. It seems everyone is used to this horrible, prickly weed growing in their lawns.
Children and animals tentatively pick their way across these areas and we often see them picking out the prickles.
I'd like to see Tauranga City Council embark on a process of elimination in the whole area of Papamoa. If the whole area was sprayed at the end of September each year and householders were also encouraged, Onehunga Weed and the awful prickles could be a thing of the past in just a few years - and our grassy areas would be children friendly again over the summer.
R Kenyon, Papamoa Beach.