The Russell Forest sika deer project aims to protect Northland's native environment. Photo / NRC
The Russell Forest sika deer project aims to protect Northland's native environment. Photo / NRC
Sixty-four deer have been culled as part of the Russell Forest sika deer eradication project. The Northland Regional Council says three deer remain in the forest. The project aims to eliminate sika deer from the forest because of the animals’ impact on native vegetation and potential role as vectors forbovine tuberculosis and kauri dieback disease. It is part of a larger vision to make Northland the first region in New Zealand to be free of wild deer.Northland Regional Council said it was appreciative of landowners, communities, whānau, hapū and iwi as well as the Department of Conservation for the results so far. Any deer sightings around Te Tai Tokerau are to be directed to 0800 FIND DEER (0800 346 333).
Driver disorder incident
Rumours that weapons were involved in a dispute between two drivers remain unconfirmed. Police were looking into a disorder incident involving the drivers in the vicinity of the junction of Grey and Gordon Sts in Dargaville yesterday morning. Police were speaking with those involved.
Weed control workshops
Northlanders keen to fight weeds can learn how at Northland Regional Council’s free weeds workshops. The council’s pest plant expert will be sharing tips at a series of workshops in Kaitāia, Russell, Kerikeri, Maungaturoto and Whangārei from August 4 to 8. People will be able to learn how best to tackle the region’s worst weeds including wild ginger, lantana, moth plant, Taiwan cherry and privet. Spaces are limited, register at nrc.govt.nz/weedsworkshops or contact Sara Brill on 0800 002 004.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand, FMG Insurance and New Zealand Police are jointly hosting rural crime prevention workshops to help farmers and rural communities protect their property and livestock. The workshops are from 11am and will be held at Kaitāia RSA on July 29, Waimate North Showgrounds Hall on July 30, and at Arapohue Hall on July 31. Police will provide practical advice about theft prevention, trespass and livestock rustling, securing farm equipment, firearms and fuel. FMG will talk about common insurance claims and how to avoid risk. Register online via the Beef + Lamb website.
The NZ Society of Authors (NZSA) Northland Short Story Competition is open to writers from all over New Zealand and will be judged by Sherryl Clark and Coo Harkens. NZSA chairwoman Sherryl Clark said authors can produce 1500-word stories on any topic, with $1000 prizemoney up for grabs. The closing date is September 30 and the entry fee is $10. Visit www.northlandauthors.co.nz for more information.
