Quick Dips

Piripiri Preservation

A vulnerable bidibidi sounds like a contradiction in terms, but the Lower Hutt City Council is now considering a bidibidi reserve management plan. Acaena pallida, the sand piripiri, has been found in sand dunes in the Wellington suburb of Eastbourne. Sand piripiri is otherwise found only in two areas of the South Island.

The sand piripiri shows potential as a beach cover plant. It spreads fast, but doesn't compete with other desired shore plants such as pingao. It also seems to hold its own against marram grass and gorse.

The feasibility of maintaining the Eastbourne colony as a source for plants for dunes around other parts of Wellington has been investigated by DoC scientists and Reserves staff. Prospects look good for the scheme, which will not only conserve a native plant, but also provide much needed cover for exposed harbour beaches.