The Province's Disaster Coordinator Pearson Simi says the rats are eating taro, sweet potato, banana and even swamp taro.

Simi says chiefs in the affected wards have already visited Auki to request support with assessments and ways to get rid of the rats.

He adds that the chiefs confirmed the rats are new to the areas because they are bigger than the natural types there.

Simi says he has already discussed the issue with agriculture staff and a plan will be developed as soon as the Chief Agriculture Officer, currently in Honiara, goes back to Auki.

He also says the rat problem is spreading to other wards.