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Story: Human effects on the environment

Spread of marram grass

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Spread of marram grass

Marram grass (Ammophila arenaria), a vigorous European sand-binding species, has been introduced in some areas in an attempt to stabilise sand dunes. At Mason Bay on the western side of Stewart Island, it has smothered native grasses and gradually covered a large area over about 50 years.

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Department of Conservation

Reference: 10055674

by Greg Lind

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How to cite this page

Janet Wilmshurst, Human effects on the environment – European impact, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/12547/spread-of-marram-grass (accessed 24 June 2026).

Story by Janet Wilmshurst, published 2 March 2009.