The New Zealand Plant Conservation Network

This tall, grass like plant is at Scotts Ferry at the mouth of the Rangitikei River.

Looks like Arundo donax - which is more usually seen further north.

Thanks Peter. I have now found that it is also listed in a report for Waitarere http://www.horizons.govt.nz/assets/2548-Waitarere-Beach-Restoration-5-5-11-file-for-client.pdf

It is also growing on the coast at Otaki at the outlet from Lake Waiorongomai. Seems to be creeping south.

I've just checked the MPI unwanted organisms register and this species is listed on the register. Could I encourage you to all log your sightings (either here or Nature Watch) so that Regional and other councils can take the necessary actions? Also to figure out if it really is spreading - and perhaps how it is spreading.

Horizons Regional Council say that Paul Champion from NIWA has looked at the Scotts Ferry plants and agreed that it was Arundo but was not sure of the species. They are waiting for it to flower to confirm the species. This plant is not listed in their Pest Plant Strategy but this is currently under review.

Horizons Regional Council has determined that this is actually Phragmites kaka. Just been checked genetically by Paul Champion by way of the Smithsonian Institute. Yes its 'bad' and yes its spreading. Horizons' Regional Pest Management Plan (including weeds) up for review right at this moment. See [email protected]

Phragmites karka.and it does sound nasty.

Cheers