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Franz Vincenz / Things
The sea spur has been found to grow on Karamea Beach, north of Westport.
The West Coasters have been warned to watch out for a nasty new coastal weed that can cause temporary blindness.
Sea spur o Euphorbia paralysis It is a tough European succulent that first invaded the shores of New Zealand in 2012 and is now beginning to appear on beaches across the country, including Karamea on the west coast.
The shrub invades the shoreline just above the high tide mark, disrupting sand dunes, displacing native plants, spreading rapidly and taking over an entire area in a short space of time, the council said.
“The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) and the Department of Conservation want people to report any sighting, but if you find it, don’t try to eliminate it.
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Franz Vincenz / Things
Succulent sap can cause temporary blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes.
“It has a sap that is toxic to humans and animals that can cause skin irritation and temporary blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes.”
The sea spur has also been found to grow on the west coast of the North Island, at Karekare beach, Aotea harbor, Mokau and Himatangi.
The seeds were believed to have arrived by ocean currents from Australia, where the shrub was now widely established along the coasts, causing significant environmental problems on many beaches, the council said.
“If you think you have found the sea spur, do not disturb the plants, as it could scatter the seeds and do not cut or try to remove it, since its sap is toxic.”
Anyone crossing the plant should take a photo of the location and a close-up of the plant, use GPS to confirm the location if possible, and call the MPI Exotic Pestline on 0800 80 99 66.
