Work is continuing on the Sugar Loaf Scenic Reserve to ensure it remains an outstanding feature of the Central Otago landscape for future generations.

Last June, phase 1 of planned work was carried out: the removal of wilding conifers from the Central Otago District Council (CODC) owned reserve near Cromwell.

In the coming weeks, phase 2 will begin at Sugar Loaf.

This will involve the eradication of briar roses, which are becoming established within the reserve. 

Briar roses will be sprayed in the coming weeks

If left unchecked, they will rapidly spread to cover the whole reserve as they have done through other parts of Central Otago, such as the Kawarau Gorge, CODC parks and recreation manager Gordon Bailey said.

“By carrying out this next phase of work we’re doing our bit to protect the region on the land that we own.”

Over the next few weeks the council will undertake spraying of the briar rose bushes along the faces fronting the Cromwell to Wānaka highway. 

The roses on the southern faces of Sugar Loaf will be dealt with at a later date.

PHOTOS: The Central App