Robinsons Bay locals encouraged to protect peninsula from Chilean needle grass
Chilean needle grass has been found near Kākakaiau Robinsons Bay — the first known site on Banks Peninsula. Our biosecurity team acted quickly, but we need your help. Join a free info session on Tuesday 9 December to learn how to spot and stop this invasive pest.
Session details
- Date: Tuesday 9 December, 10am to 12pm
- Location: Duvauchelle Hall, 6085 Christchurch Akaroa Road, then carpooling to affected property
- Register: Please RSVP by Friday 5 December to biosecurity@ecan.govt.nz, including your name and contact number, for catering purposes
The dangers of Chilean needle grass
Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana) is notorious for its sharp, needle-like seeds that can injure animals and reduce wool and meat quality. It can easily spread on vehicles, machinery, and stock movement and once established can be difficult and costly to control.
“The plants were already seeding, which is unusually early,” said Noel Crump, our senior biosecurity officer. “It’s likely due to the more sheltered climate and minimal frosts compared to North Canterbury, where most known sites are.
“Chilean needle grass can be very difficult to identify when it’s not seeding and is often mistaken for other common weeds like ripgut brome. We encourage everyone to learn the key characteristics and let us know if you see something suspicious or are unsure.”
What you will learn at the session
Locals will learn how to identify Chilean needle grass, understand its impacts, and explore practical ways to manage and prevent its spread.
Attendees will hear from biosecurity experts, receive free identification guides, and enjoy a live demonstration from Archie, Aotearoa New Zealand’s only certified Chilean needle grass detector dog, alongside handler Lauren.
Topics covered include:
- The history of Chilean needle grass and how it arrived in Waitaha Canterbury.
- Impacts on land productivity, livestock, and biodiversity.
- Control options for long-term management.
- How it spreads and what you can do to prevent it.
- Tools and support available to protect your property and community.
Whether you're a landowner, farmer, gardener, or simply care about the health of the peninsula, this information session will be a great opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to protecting the region.
Archie is Aotearoa New Zealand’s only certified Chilean needle grass detector dog