Controversial spray to be phased out
Auckland Council will dramatically reduce the use of chemical sprays in playgrounds and parks, as it moves to streamline contracts, a councillor says.
Aucklanders can expect better maintenance of their local parks, buildings and open spaces, following a procurement process which has identified key maintenance suppliers.
Since 2015, the council had reverted to spraying with chemicals as a cost-cutting measure.
Councillor for the Albany ward John Watson says, from July 1, the council’s new contracts will result in improved outcomes for communities in the Rodney region.
‘‘This will especially be the case for the many people with concerns over the use of chemical sprays. Residents have been particularly vocal in their opposition to the use of glyphosate.
‘‘Now, every park and playground across the region will have mechanical edging as the norm for all hard surfaces (that is for all paths, pads, playgrounds and bollards).‘‘
Councillor Wayne Walker says the new contracts do not apply to the road corridor, which remains in the hands of Auckland Transport.
‘‘The sooner this happens the better. It’ll result in a reduction of costs and the use of chemicals, both of which have risen sharply since the advent of AT in 2010.’’
After strong public concerns about the increased use of chemical sprays in Rodney, the council’s Mike Tucker says glyphosate is only applied three to four times per year in Rodney.
‘‘This is no higher than other areas of Auckland; however, the large geographical area of Rodney means that a higher amount of edging and weed management must be carried out to maintain the area for Aucklanders.
‘‘Glyphosate is classified by the New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) as having low toxicity to humans, and the EPA has granted approvals for the use of glyphosate-containing substances in New Zealand. We are confident it is safe to use as the EPA has not rated glyphosate as toxic in respect to either irritation to the skin or inhalation.’’
Despite this, Tucker says; ‘‘We are committed to reducing our use of agrichemicals.’’
The new contracts will cover the whole Auckland region, but are structured in service areas aligned with local board boundaries.