Property owners in the Whakatāne District are responsible for mowing the grass verges outside their own properties. The Council mows grass on rural roadsides, bridge approaches and some corners for safety purposes only.
If you can’t mow the lawns outside your home due to age or illness, there are a number of organisations you can approach that offer mowing services. Their contact details are generally found in the telephone directory.
Report long grass
The Council employs contractors to undertake its grass cutting on rural roadsides, parks, reserves and sportsfields. Mowing standards are set and monitored by the Council, but if you are concerned about grass height anywhere, please call us on 07 306 0500 or fill in the Fix It Form.
Long grass on highways
If you’re concerned about the length of the grass alongside a State Highway, please contact New Zealand Transport Agency on 0800 444 449. They are responsible for maintenance on State Highways, including the road verge.
Weed control
Bay of Plenty Regional Council have a Plant Pest Management Strategy that the Council and all property owners must abide by. Download a copy of the Pest Management Strategy. The Council will control plant pests on its road reserve where the adjacent property owner is also actively managing the problem on their side of the boundary.
Grass on a neighbour’s property
If the grass on your neighbour’s property is unkempt and causing an eyesore, the Council cannot intervene unless there is a fire hazard or a risk to your health or the environment.
If you believe your neighbour's property is a fire hazard or health risk, please call us on 07 306 0500, and we will refer your concern to the appropriate agency.
Nuisance trees on private property
Trees can be a great feature to your home, but they can also become a nuisance. The link below has some useful advice on how you and your neighbours can manage nuisance trees.