Bethells Residents Up in Arms Over Planned Aerial Spraying of Roundup

Local residents are outraged that the Waitakere City Council would even consider aerial spraying of Roundup over the Bethells wetlands.

They cite effects on pregnant women and the fact that they are all on tank water and grow their own fruit and vegetables as reasons for concern.

A number of residents say they are also extremely chemically sensitive to all sprays and have moved to the area to get away from such things, especially after nearly three years of aerial spraying for the Painted Apple Moth over the rest of west Auckland.

"They tell me they are also concerned as to the spraying's effects on the area's diverse wildlife", says Helen Wiseman-Dare, Chairperson of West Aucklanders Against Aerial Spraying (WASP). The internationally significant wetlands are home to a wide variety of birdlife.

Residents intend to make their feelings strongly known at the Waitakere City Council's planned Open Day today from 10.00am to 2.00pm at the Bethells Fire Station, cnr of Te Aute Ridge Rd East and Bethells Road. A protest is planned from 9.45am.

"They are also angry over the lack of public consultation. Many were unaware of the planned spraying until very recently", says Helen Wiseman-Dare. "The Council had no intention of consulting with residents, only "affected landowners" - the Open Day and recent mailout of a flyer to residents are a result of public pressure". A Petition against the spraying has now been started.

ends

© Scoop Media