Bug to tackle broom

A small European immigrant with a big appetite has been unleashed to try to stem the growth of a weed that is choking rural New Zealand and hurting the economy.

The broom leaf beetle was imported into New Zealand and released around Hanmer Springs, Canterbury, yesterday. The beetle specifically attacks scotch broom, which forms impenetrable thickets and quietly takes over farming pastures.

Farmers have welcomed the new ally in the costly and difficult fight against broom.