KAURI DIEBACK PROGRAMME Annual Operating Report 2017/18

1 Disclaimer

The information in this publication represents the collective view of the Programme partners. While every effort has been made to ensure the information in this publication is accurate, the Kauri Dieback Programme partners do not accept any responsibility or liability for error of fact, omission, interpretation or opinion that may be present nor for the consequences of any decisions based on this information. Any view or opinion expressed does not necessarily represent the individual views of any of the members of the Kauri Dieback Programme.

ISBN No: 978-1-98-857156-0 (print) ISBN No: 978-1-98-857157-7 (online)

Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Contents

Foreword 2

Introduction 3

Our structure 4

Work highlights 2017/18 5

Accelerating Protection for Kauri 6

Controlled Area Notices 7

Strategic Science Advisory Group 8

Programme case studies 9

Partner reports for 2017/18 12

Revenue and expenditure for the 2017/18 Financial Year 16

Programme workstream reports for 2017/18 17

1 Julie Holt from Enviroschools helps students from Whangarei Heads School plant a kauri as part of their learning activities. Photo: Northland Regional Council. Foreword

It has been a significant year for the visible soil from footwear and equipment a campaign against kauri dieback disease; legal requirement, supported by compliance possibly the most important since the monitoring and education. programme was established in 2009. A great deal of science and research work is The 2017/18 year saw us start a number still going on. We’re seeing some promising of initiatives that, once implemented, will results from research into treatments that fundamentally change the Kauri Dieback will protect kauri. We also have a Kauri Programme and provide much stronger Dieback Strategic Science Advisory Group, protection for kauri. These include the set up in early 2018, that includes national development of a National Kauri Dieback and international experts. They’ll help us to Pest Management Plan, the design of a new identify where further research is needed agency to lead the delivery of the plan, and a and coordinate these efforts, while enabling refresh of the Programme’s strategy to focus the sharing of scientific knowledge to on the long-term protection of kauri. protect kauri. The impact of these changes shouldn’t be Despite our efforts across the Programme, underestimated. The decision to develop an ongoing challenge is turning awareness a national plan means a more formal and into action. We know for example from our regulated approach to dealing with kauri social science research that while most dieback disease. This will help provide a people want to do the right thing and are nationally consistent approach that supports supportive of forest hygiene protection our Programme partners who are fighting measures, getting everyone to comply the disease on the ground. with these measures is a bigger task. This will not only take ongoing work by the We know from consultation about the Programme partners – but also everyone national plan that there are strong and visiting kauri lands to take ownership of the diverse views on the best way to protect issue and play their part. kauri. No matter what path is chosen, it’s important to remember that all those The next year will see big changes for the involved in these discussions have a Programme and I would like to acknowledge common goal of wanting to protect kauri all of the hard work of our partners, for future generations. The challenge for contributors and staff this year to keep the Programme and the decision-makers improving how we protect kauri. will be coming up with effective, long- I would also like to recognise the work of lasting solutions that acknowledge the the large network of passionate community varied interests of communities that have a volunteers and groups committed to saving relationship with kauri. kauri. I know that maintaining momentum While all of this has been happening, the and enthusiasm can sometimes be hard, partners in the Programme have also been but your efforts to protect precious kauri in rolling out practical measures to further your communities will help benefit future protect kauri. generations. I thank you for what you are doing and I hope you are encouraged Track upgrades and track closures have by the developments you are seeing in been taking place to protect vulnerable the Programme. areas, and we have continued to provide funding to fence off kauri on private land, with support from contributors.

Controlled Area Notices (CANs) were Roger Smith introduced over parts of the Waita-kere and Chair, Kauri Dieback Programme and Hunua Ranges. They make cleaning all Head of Biosecurity New Zealand 2 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Introduction

Ko te kauri he whakaruruhau mo- te Iwi katoa difficult to fight. It’s an issue that scientists, The kauri is a shelter for all peoples conservationists and agencies around the world have continued to grapple with as they Kia toi tu- he whenua search for solutions. So that the land is restored But kauri trees can be saved if everyone – Kia toi tu- he kauri including the public, central and regional So that the kauri stands proud government agencies, iwi, scientists, Kauri trees have a defining place in the researchers and landowners – all work culture, history and landscape of Aotearoa together and play their part to combat the New Zealand. spread of the disease. They are a cornerstone of our northern forest ecosystems, but are at grave risk from kauri Kauri Dieback Programme dieback disease, which is almost always fatal In 2009, the Kauri Dieback Programme was and can kill kauri of all ages and sizes. There launched to develop solutions to kauri dieback is currently no cure for the disease. disease and support efforts by communities Kauri dieback is transferred through soil and others to help prevent its spread. movement, with human activity the most The Programme’s overall vision is common factor in its spread – usually that by 2024, the mauri (life-force) and through infected soil being carried on integrity of kauri forests are sustained in footwear and equipment. the presence of PA; we understand the The disease is caused by a tiny fungus-like disease; and tangata whenua, communities pathogen, agathidicida (PA), and stakeholders are all active in the which infects kauri tree roots and damages management of kauri dieback disease. the tissues carrying nutrients and water. It’s This report provides an overview of the suspected the disease has been present in Programme’s work in the 2017/18 year. It also New Zealand since at least the 1950s, but only looks at some key developments and changes in 2008 were scientists able to formally identify ahead in the ongoing campaign to protect the pathogen and its role in killing kauri. kauri for future generations. The pathogens that cause diseases like kauri dieback are very complex and

3 Our structure

Protecting kauri together The Kauri Dieback Programme (the Programme) is a operational decisions about land use or work on the collaborative partnership between Biosecurity New ground. However, it works closely with Programme Zealand (part of the Ministry for Primary Industries), the partners to support their efforts. Department of Conservation (DOC), Auckland Council, Since 2014, when our 10-year strategy was developed, the Northland, and Regional the Programme’s focus has been on four main areas: Councils, Te Roroa, and the Tangata Whenua Roopu. Delivering Effective Operations: ensuring that The Programme is overseen by a governance group resources are targeted at the right scale (whether comprised of representatives from each of the whole landscapes, forests or stands), to the right sites Programme’s partner agencies. The group shares (regardless of whether they are privately or publicly accountability for decision-making, particularly for any owned), and that the most effective mix of interventions significant decisions on how best to deliver key areas of is utilised, (given the local context). work, and the allocation of funding. Building Knowledge and Tools: through research, Biosecurity New Zealand provides overall coordination acquiring knowledge of kauri dieback disease and of the Programme on behalf of the partners. It chairs developing tools to make us more effective and efficient and administers the governance group and provides at managing the disease and its impacts. programme and project management for the various workstreams through which work is delivered. Engaging and Enabling People and Communities: central and local government can’t manage the disease Work on the ground to control kauri dieback disease alone - communities must help prevent the spread of (such as track upgrades, temporary closures or testing kauri dieback disease. trees that might be infected) is undertaken by the relevant land owner or manager, such as DOC, iwi, and Effectively Managing the Programme: maintaining regional councils. Because Biosecurity New Zealand a culture focused on continual improvement and does not own or manage any land, it does not make collaboration.

The Programme continues to engage with forest users to ensure good hygiene practices.

4 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Work highlights 2017/18

Significant progress was made during 2017/18, including • Completion of a comprehensive three-year aerial the introduction of important new initiatives that will surveillance programme, covering three million enable stronger protection for kauri now and long into hectares of kauri lands. From this, around 450 sites the future. (individual trees or clumps of trees), were identified The Accelerating Protection for Kauri Project for possible investigation to see whether kauri commenced in March 2018. A key priority is to deliver dieback disease is present. a National Kauri Dieback Pest Management Plan (the • Completion of a five-year field trial which showed Plan) for combatting kauri dieback disease. It will be the phosphite can successfully heal trunk lesions of strongest form of regulation we can put in place. The infected juvenile kauri. While not a cure, this could project is also developing options for a management help reduce the impact of the disease. agency to deliver the Plan, while also refreshing the • Ongoing biological control research, which has Programme’s strategy. identified several products that show a degree of In May 2018, Controlled Area Notices (CANs) were put in efficacy against PA in laboratory trials. - place over parts of the Waitakere and Hunua Ranges to • The start of a three-year Cultural Health Indicator control the movement of soil and make it a requirement Monitoring Programme, contracting mana whenua as for forest users to follow good hygiene practices. This our monitors. supports the ongoing efforts of Auckland Council and Te Kawerau a- Maki to protect kauri in the region. • The Programme’s website was improved with refreshed information, including making more The Kauri Dieback Strategic Science Advisory Group research papers available online. (SSAG) was also established to provide independent • A greater focus on behaviour change interventions to high-level strategic science advice and develop a prioritised research plan incorporating both long-term encourage people to adopt behaviours which will help and operational science needs for the management of prevent the spread of the pathogen. kauri dieback disease. • Supporting LEARNZ to run a virtual field trip that enabled 1,700 students to learn more about kauri. The measures noted above were agreed by the Programme’s governance group in early 2018 and help The Programme’s work is delivered through four main support the Government’s desire for more urgent and workstreams. More details about each workstream are collective action to strengthen the protection of kauri. provided in the tables on pages 17-19 of this report. In A wide range of other work to combat kauri dieback addition, partner agencies also continued to deliver disease was carried out this year. Some highlights include: important work to protect kauri, detailed on pages 12-15.

Significant upgrades of tracks in kauri lands were part of the work undertaken during 2017/18.

5 Accelerating Protection for Kauri

Creating a secure future for kauri In December 2017, the Government announced that half of the 2018 calendar year, so falls outside the efforts to protect kauri from dieback disease would be reporting period of this annual report. However, this strengthened. In particular, the Programme partners work has included carrying out an extensive series were tasked with developing a National Kauri Dieback of public consultation rounds, meetings and hui in Management Plan (the Plan). kauri lands. There was strong public interest in, and feedback from, these events. The APK project team Development of the Plan creates a strong regulatory tool expects to make final recommendations on the plan and under the Biosecurity Act 1993. It will provide controls management agency in early 2019. to help contain the spread of kauri dieback disease. It will set nationally consistent standards and rules for The project has been supported by two working managing the disease across all regions. groups – one focusing on practical issues and advice on developing the Plan – and one focused on the design of The Accelerating Protection for Kauri (APK) project an agency to implement it. The working groups are made was formed to develop the plan and recommendations of up of representatives from the Programme’s partners for a management agency to implement it. The project and other organisations with specialist expertise. was also tasked with fast-tracking a refreshed kauri An independent panel is also providing peer review and dieback disease management strategy to guide all future comment on strategic elements of the APK project. As programme activity. part of this, panel members have been heavily involved Much of the APK project work occurred in the second in supporting the rounds of public consultation.

Biosecurity Officer Gavin Clapperton emerges from a kauri dieback footwear cleaning station in Whangarei’s AH Reed Memorial Park. Colleague Adrian Peachey is behind him. Photo: Northland Regional Council.

6 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Controlled Area Notices

The approach to combatting kauri dieback disease Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve was strengthened this year with the introduction and Controlled Area Notice implementation of Controlled Area Notices (CANs). As a further measure to protect kauri on DOC-managed CANs are put in place by Biosecurity New Zealand land in the Waita-kere Ranges, a CAN has also been under Section 131 of the Biosecurity Act 1993. They are placed on the Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve and tracks. designed to control the movement of goods or materials This complements an extensive track upgrade to prevent that may cause a biosecurity risk in a particular area – in the spread of kauri dieback disease. this case the transfer of potentially infected soil – while still allowing people access to these areas. Three new walk-through cleaning stations have also been installed at track entrances so people can clean They also set out the mandatory biosecurity hygiene and disinfect their footwear and items they’re carrying standards people must follow when visiting a controlled when entering and leaving the reserve. area. This might include instructions for cleaning Both the council and DOC measures support ra-hui put in footwear, or other restrictions on the movement of risk place earlier by Te Kawerau -a Maki. materials like soil or plants. People or businesses in breach of a CAN may face prosecution.

Waita-kere and Hunua Ranges Controlled Area Notices On 1 May 2018, the first two CANs were put in place to boost efforts to reduce the spread of kauri dieback disease. These cover:

• various tracks within the Waita-kere Ranges Regional Park • the native forested area of the Hunua Ranges regional parkland.

The Waita-kere CAN applies only to specific tracks which remain open within the park, as the council has closed other tracks to help stop the spread of the disease.

This means that in areas where the CANs apply, people can’t take footwear, equipment or other items with visible soil on them into or out of the tracks. They must also use all cleaning stations encountered and follow any instructions at the site.

To build awareness of these changes, the introduction of the CANs was advertised in local media and new signage was put up in the parks.

Auckland Council and Biosecurity New Zealand worked closely to prepare the CANs. They augment other significant initiatives the council is employing to protect kauri, including track upgrades, new hygiene stations, signage, physical barriers, video monitoring and compliance officers. CANs are in place in the Waita-kere and Hunua Ranges to provide greater protection for kauri.

7 Strategic Science Advisory Group

The Kauri Dieback Strategic Science Advisory Group and complementary. It also works to help ensure (SSAG) was formed in early 2018 to further support that funding supports practical, cost-effective and and coordinate scientific efforts to combat kauri timely management tools that enable more effective dieback disease. management of the impacts of the disease in As scientific research is a vital part of the response to New Zealand. the disease, the SSAG has been established to provide The SSAG has also been responsible for drafting a independent, high-level advice on the strategic direction strategic science plan, which provides advice to the and coordination of kauri dieback disease research, Programme and Ministers on priority research needs reporting to the Programme’s governance group. and will help inform funding decisions. The plan will The SSAG includes experts from science organisations, guide researchers on the priority research needs to tangata whenua, government agencies and from focus on, and is expected to be published by the end overseas, who are contributing their scientific knowledge of 2018. and experience to strengthen our efforts to protect kauri. In the meantime, numerous other scientific research The group is working with government agencies, Crown programmes are continuing within the Programme, Research Institutes and other research organisations. with a focus on immediate operational tool development Its focus is to maintain oversight of kauri dieback needs, such as developing better surveillance and disease-related research and ensure this is cohesive treatment tools.

An ASD field spectrometer set up for remote sensing of kauri health. Credit: J Meiforth.

8 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Programme case studies

Phosphite Trials Show Promise The 2017/18 year saw the completion of a five-year phosphite treatment could last three to five years, at long field trial which showed phosphite injections can which stage the trees may need re-treatment. Further successfully heal trunk lesions of infected juvenile kauri. research is planned to determine the optimal treatment While not a cure, this could help reduce the impact of the regime. Field trials for larger mature trees will be disease and gives hope that we can boost protection for completed in June 2021. some kauri. The independent programme “Kauri Rescue” is also The chemical phosphite is one of the most promising using the results of the Plant & Food research in their tools to fight kauri dieback disease found so far. It is trials on trees on private land. usually injected into the trunk of the tree, and is widely The Kauri Dieback Programme acknowledges Dr Ian used internationally on a range of plant species. It Horner and staff at Plant & Food Research for carrying appears to stimulate the host plant’s defences to fight out this valuable research. off the disease, similar to how antibiotics help boost the human immune system to fight infection. It is also considered likely that phosphite directly suppresses the Phytophthora pathogen. The promising results from this research are already being put to use, informing the development of best practice guidelines. Auckland Council is also using the knowledge gained as part of a large scale phosphite treatment programme in the Waita-kere Ranges. Other partner organisations, such as Waikato Regional Council and Te Roroa, are considering the use of phosphite treatments as well. Plant & Food Research were engaged to run the trial between 2012 and 2017, with the aim of determining whether phosphite treatment via trunk injections was effective against the Phytophthora pathogen in juvenile kauri trees. It also explored whether it could reduce the rate of symptom development and improve health in infected trees. This followed successful earlier trials with inoculated glasshouse kauri seedlings. Treatment was given to a total of 163 ricker (juvenile) kauri trees across four sites. At the start of the trial, these young trees were all showing symptoms of kauri dieback disease, including canopy thinning, foliage dieback and basal trunk lesions. After the initial injection treatments, each tree was monitored every six months. But after five years, all trunk lesions on phosphite-treated trees healed – and in most cases, within one year of treatment application. How long the treatment remains effective and how often trees will need injections for long-term protection are Phosphite injection trials have shown promising results in still to be determined, but results from this research the fight against kauri dieback. are promising. Based on the research, the effects of Credit: I. Horner 9 Ambassador Programme Strengthens Kauri Protection Launched in 2014, the Ta-ne Mahuta Ambassador ambassadors provide visitors with detailed information Programme is a partnership between Te Iwi o Te Roroa about the disease, its prevention and current research as the mana whenua of , and DOC. efforts, particularly those happening in Waipoua Forest and Trounson Kauri Park. Waipoua is home to New Zealand’s oldest and largest living kauri, Ta-ne Mahuta, thought to be between 1200 Ambassadors are based on the boardwalk and viewing and 2000 years old, which is a drawcard for some platform area directly below the canopy of Ta-ne Mahuta, 200,000 visitors every year. which is capable of holding large groups of up to 80 people But with the ever-present threat of kauri dieback disease at any one time. The ambassadors also present to smaller within the forest, significant measures are in place to groups and often provide a one-on-one experience with ensure the ongoing protection of this national taonga (or interested travellers. They weave together indigenous treasure). This includes Te Roroa ambassadors, who are story-telling, waiata (traditional songs), taonga puoro - - very much at the forefront in educating and encouraging (traditional instruments), matauranga Maori (traditional people to preserve taonga kauri, ensuring their greater knowledge) and information about western science to protection. Their role complements the other layers of inform visitors’ experience. protection in place, including hi-tech footwear cleaning After a welcome and introduction, the ambassadors take stations and upgraded tracks and boardwalks. visitors through some of the facts about Ta-ne Mahuta Initially, the ambassador programme set out to provide and the physiological characteristics of kauri. This - visitors to Ta-ne Mahuta with a cultural perspective of the story-telling helps illustrate Tane Mahuta as a living relationship between Te Roroa and the whole forest, with and breathing organism, just like humans – and the Ta-ne Mahuta being a strong symbol of this relationship. destructive nature of the disease. Through this personal It has now expanded further into an important connection, and with the latest information provided by educational role with a strong biosecurity focus. As the ambassadors, visitors are informed about what they well as giving an important cultural perspective, the can do to make sure they don’t spread the disease.

Te Roroa Ambassadors play a critical role in informing visitors to Waipoua Forest and Tāne Mahuta about kauri dieback. Photo: Taoho Patuawa, Te Roroa.

10 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Students from Whangarei Heads School and others from around the country are standing tall behind kauri with a range of classroom activities. Credit: Northland Regional Council.

Students Stand Tall Behind Kauri Students from Whangarei Heads School are among schools and were encouraged to use LEARNZ resources many from around New Zealand playing their part to prior to the field trip. A series of videos available keep kauri standing into the future. throughout the field trip take children on a journey to learn more about kauri. Students explored Ma-ori cultural The Northland school was just one of 70 that took part in connections, science and research, and behaviour a ‘virtual field trip’ in May 2018 exploring kauri dieback change for preventing the spread of the disease. disease, supported by the students’ own learning activities in class. Their contribution was marked with The beauty of this virtual approach is that it can be used the planting of a young kauri at the school. to explore places where it may be challenging for large groups of children to visit. A highlight was the daily live Run by LEARNZ and supported by Biosecurity New web conference which enabled students to interact with Zealand, the virtual field trip helps strengthen community LEARNZ representatives and guest experts. relationships across the Programme, and increases The Programme thanks LEARNZ, Whangarei Heads awareness among the young biosecurity ambassadors of School and all of the schools, teachers and students who the future about the need to protect these iconic trees. participated in the virtual field trip and who continue to Held over three days, teachers pre-registered their help protect kauri. 11 Partner reports for 2017/18

Biosecurity New Zealand Biosecurity New Zealand (part of the Ministry for distribution and characteristics. Primary Industries) provides overall coordination and We also significantly increased our investment in the administration of the Kauri Dieback Programme. programme to deliver additional work this year. During the 2017/18 year, we continued to work closely This included an extra $750,000 to support new with our partners and deliver a range of projects and initiatives, following moves announced by the initiatives that support the Programme. Government in late 2017 to strengthen the protection This included provision of just over $1.2m in funding for of kauri. This included the Accelerating Protection for work across the Programme workstreams – including Kauri project, development of Controlled Area Notices significant investment in science and research projects and establishment of a Strategic Science Advisory to find new tools and treatments for managing and Group. More detail about these initiatives is highlighted fighting the disease, and to better understand its separately in this report.

Department of Conservation The Department of Conservation (DOC) is a key partner DOC has now upgraded vulnerable sections on 54 high in the Programme and contributes to governance, priority tracks (a total of 180km of walking tracks). science and operational learnings. DOC’s role is also to Upgrade work includes installing new gravelled tracks, help protect kauri on land it manages or co-manages, boardwalks, stairways and handrails. By the end of and delivers this work through the Kauri Dieback the 2017/18 year, a total of 13 tracks and four reserves Recreation Project. had been closed to further protect kauri as part of the Over the 2017/18 financial year, after consultation with Recreation Project. communities and iwi, a further 31 priority tracks within DOC has undertaken a number of trials to develop a kauri forests were upgraded, reducing the potential cleaning station design that is easier to use and more spread of kauri dieback disease over 123km of tracks. difficult to avoid. These new stations are being installed over the 2018/19 year. DOC has also developed a bespoke, large walk-through cleaning station at the iconic Ta-ne Mahuta site in Waipoua Forest, where it works in partnership with Te Roroa to help manage the approximately 200,000 people who visit each year. Funding has been provided to Te Roroa to employ ambassadors at the Ta-ne Mahuta site over the summer, who provide important information about the disease and ensure that visitors have clean footwear. In addition to the Recreation Project, DOC monitors and tests identified priority sites through its kauri lands. Over the 2018/19 year, DOC will be continuing its work upgrading tracks, installing cleaning stations, and using behaviour change research to increase compliance and roll out ambassadors at key sites. It will be reviewing its surveillance and monitoring programme, and providing input into development of the National Kauri Dieback Management Plan. In Waipoua Forest, further work will An advanced cleaning station is in place at the entrance to include a new five year pig control programme, new Ta-ne Mahuta in Waipoua Forest. signage around the site and hand rails all along the Photo: DOC. boardwalk. The ambassadors’ role will also continue. 12 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Tangata Whenua Roopu After hui held in locations in kauri lands, The Tangata for the management of their forests. Whenua Roopu (the Roopu) was established in 2009 We are firmly committed to ensuring that -rahui and as a key partner in the Kauri Dieback Programme. The traditional methods of managing forests are properly role of the Roopu is to inform decision-making, policies considered in responding to emerging biosecurity risks, and strategies developed by the partners to combat the and in the development of environmental policies and spread of kauri dieback disease. strategies. We also acknowledge that there needs to be From the beginning, the Roopu has been committed to stronger compliance and regulation that will enable better ensuring that ma-tauranga Ma-ori (traditional knowledge management of informal and formal users of our forests. and indigenous values) has equitable status to western As a better understanding of the pathogen has emerged science in the programme, as we consider this is critical over the last year, tangata Ma-ori have been able to more to helping resolve kauri dieback. Over the last year, we effectively apply our ma-tauranga to fighting the disease. - - have been encouraged that matauranga Maori is being This has seen tohunga rongoa- working with our hapu elevated not only within the Programme, but also across and whanau – and in some instances in established the biosecurity research space. ‘trust relationships’ with scientists – trialling traditional Tangata Ma-ori who have dedicated their time, technical solutions to address kauri dieback. - expertise and matauranga to this response, have done We acknowledge too that while kauri dieback is only so with the express intention to save kauri. At times, the one pathogen destroying our natural environment, journey to fight this disease that is killing our taonga has the learnings that have emerged from working in this been frustrating, challenging and complex, as we (and Programme have been utilised across other our Programme partners) have strived to increase our biosecurity responses. knowledge about the pathogen. In the meantime, as the Programme works through While a focus on controlling the pathogen and ‘stopping its next iteration and moves its activity to an entity that the spread’ of kauri dieback is important, tangata will take over the management of the kauri dieback Ma-ori have maintained the relevance of ensuring kauri response. In the midst of the Programme activity, and resilience and protecting uninfected kauri forests, while whilst we are working with our Programme partners, supporting the management of kauri dieback in infected we are most cognisant of the relationships we have with regions. We are also focussed on the importance of our own people. We will continue to work with them investing in the capability of mana whenua and their and within the Programme in the hope that this work communities to understand, and therefore better plan, contributes to the longevity of kauri.

Te Roroa Te Roroa has completed a draft Ta-ne Mahuta Meanwhile, our ambassadors are continuing to make a Kauri Dieback Response Plan in partnership with significant contribution to biosecurity efforts by raising the Department of Conservation (DOC), following awareness of kauri dieback disease among visitors to confirmation of the disease near -Tane Mahuta in Waipoua the iconic Ta-ne Mahuta site. Forest. The plan was developed with technical and They provide an enhanced visitor experience and scientific advice from prominentPhytophthora experts. incorporate cultural story-telling with educational The aim is to gather more detailed data on pathogen messages about preventing the spread of the disease. spread and human behaviour patterns around the ra-kau rangatira visitor sites. This data will be used to provide an informed report to assist with short-term forest management decisions at these important sites. Our Kauri Dieback Tactical Team has also been developing a suite of biosecurity related standard operating procedures for staff, contractors, hunters and others working throughout Waipoua Forest. These procedures incorporate and adapt many of the actions identified in the ‘How to’ guides developed as part of the Heni Matthews, Te Roroa Tourism Manager, addresses Kauri Dieback Programme. This is being supported by Halau O’hia, a contingent of forest health professionals from Hawaii, during a visit to Waipoua Forest. Biosecurity New Zealand, DOC and Northland Regional Photo: Fredrik Hjelm - The Living Tree Company. Council, and is on track to be completed by June 2019. 13 Auckland Council In 2017/18 Auckland Council has been largely focused community and industry events, as well as engagement on extensive track closures, the placement of Controlled with Auckland schools, has also been a focus for the Area Notices (CANs) in the Waita-kere and Hunua council’s kauri dieback team. Ranges, and the resulting compliance programme. Looking ahead, the council will review all its other parks - The forested areas of the Waitakere Ranges and high-risk with kauri forest to determine whether further track tracks in the Hunua Ranges were closed on 1 May 2018, closures will be required. Track upgrades will continue, - - following a rahui by Te Kawerau a Maki and a decision by along with installation of improved cleaning stations the Council’s Community and Environment Committee. where these are needed. Compliance officers will A CAN was placed on both parks, under the Biosecurity remain in place, with the addition of track ambassadors Act, and compliance officers were deployed to support during the busy summer period. Aerial surveillance will this as well as educate park visitors. Some tracks in the continue in areas where this is due to occur, based on Waita-kere Ranges have been upgraded, and more will re- the five-yearly survey cycle. This will include the area of open once they are upgraded to a ‘kauri safe’ standard. Auckland south of the Harbour Bridge, and extend to the - Aerial surveillance and ground-truthing was completed boundaries of the surveys undertaken in the Waitakere across the north of Auckland (including the North Shore and Hunua Ranges. and Rodney areas). Unfortunately, some new kauri The new Natural Environment Targeted Rate adopted dieback disease sites were discovered, including one in by Auckland Council as part of the Long Term Plan will Kauri Park, Birkenhead, the first recorded in this area. also allow for additional investment in kauri protection During summer 2017-18, a comprehensive ambassador activities, as well as further education and engagement, programme took place in council parks. Ambassadors and assistance for private landowners, with a focus on were stationed at high-use tracks to educate park users protecting high-value, healthy kauri. From next year, this on kauri dieback disease, the ra-hui, and how people will see $100 million allocated towards kauri dieback can help prevent disease spread. Having a presence at protection over the next 10 years.

Northland Regional Council Northland Regional Council has adopted the Northland The council has continued to assist and support Regional Pest Management Plan 2017-2027, which landowners with the installation of cleaning stations, includes new and improved rules for managing kauri providing biosecurity hygiene equipment and kits. dieback disease. In particular, it strengthens the ability Council staff have attended community meetings of the council to manage and reduce the risk of the and seminars, providing information and educating disease spreading on private land in Northland. Northland landowners, hunters, and communities about It has also committed an additional $200,000 in funding the disease and how to reduce the risk of it spreading to per year for the next three years as part of its Long Term or from their area. Plan 2018-28. This funding is being used to employ two additional specialist staff who will work with Northland The Council also continued to work with key land owners to manage the disease, conduct additional organisations such as the Matakohe Kauri Museum, testing, undertake ground-truthing of areas identified Queen Elizabeth National Trust (QEII), Te Araroa Trail, - through aerial surveillance, and work with land owners local councils and several local iwi and hapu groups to to implement management plans. increase awareness about the disease.

14 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Waikato Regional Council Waikato Regional Council has committed additional identified through the aerial surveillance. It has funding for kauri protection as part of its Long Term Plan continued to assist private land owners with kauri 2018-28, ramping up to $150,000 per year after year protection advice and fencing support, community three. This will be used to better protect kauri on private groups with information and funding for cleaning land in the Waikato region. stations, and supported a community-led track ambassador programme over the past summer on the The council has recently completed a comprehensive Coromandel Peninsula. aerial survey of the Waikato kauri lands, supported by the Programme, which led to further ground Council staff have attended community meetings and surveillance and the development of critical geospatial seminars providing information and advice to Waikato information. The geospatial information being developed landowners, school groups, and communities about includes a ‘kauri location layer’ which is being used to dieback disease and how to protect kauri. The council target resources more effectively for kauri protection. continues to work with key organisations such as other local councils and the Coromandel Kauri Dieback Forum In addition, the council is making good progress in to increase awareness about the disease. undertaking ground-truthing work at the locations

Bay Of Plenty Regional Council The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has continued to Signage regarding appropriate hygiene was provided to support private land owners with kauri on their property. some landowners and erected in a city reserve. Council Site visits were made to landowners with concerns about staff supported local kauri dieback pest management protecting kauri and advice was provided. plan consultations, while school groups and local hap-u learned about kauri dieback disease through visits to Photos of kauri with bleeds were taken and the visits the Kaimai Ranges. Kauri dieback disease education recorded in a database, should follow up visits be workshops for children were held as part of Tauranga necessary in the event of the disease being detected. Biosecurity Week.

Further Acknowledgement Although not formal partners in the programme, we acknowledge the generous support of the Tindall and Aotearoa Foundations, who have continued to provide grants funding for projects that strengthen the protection of kauri. This has included significant funding to support work such as fencing off kauri on private land, and for community engagement and educational initiatives.

15 Revenue and expenditure for the 2017/18 Financial Year

Revenue $1,898,497

Waikato Regional Council $72,000 Bay of Plenty Regional Council $25,000 Northland Regional Council $88,000 Tindall/Aotearoa Foundations $80,000

Auckland Council $40,000

Department of Conservation $364,000 Biosecurity New Zealand – Crown revenue $1,229,497

Expenditure* $1,923,504

Engaging and Enabling People and Communities $271,599

Effectively Managing Building Knowledge the Programme and Tools $843,157 $592,447

(This includes staff salaries, Tangata Whenua Roopu operating costs and other Programme support costs)

Delivering Effective Operations $216,301

*Does not include partner agencies’ operational spend. *MPI provided an additional $751,730 in funding to support initiatives including the Accelerating Protection for Kauri Project, development of Controlled Area Notices and related staff costs.

16 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Programme workstream reports for 2017/18

Effectively Managing the Programme

Programme Management Workstream Programme leadership: Strong leadership is critical to ensuring that the measures being developed to strengthen protection for kauri are effective. The Programme is continually monitored against its goals and outcomes. Management: Effective coordination and management of the Programme’s projects and interdependencies, including oversight of risks and issues. Growing and developing capability in the team to reflect the expansion of the work programme. Media communications: Proactive and reactive media communications to support the Programme’s objectives. Since the announcement in December 2017 of new measures to strengthen protection for kauri, there has been heightened interest in the disease. A substantial amount of work has been invested in informing the public what we are doing, why, how and by when. Business planning and support: Managing these requirements on behalf of Ministers and the Government. In 2017/18 we made a submission to the Environment Select Committee and provided responses to additional questions. Two select committee summaries were prepared for the Primary Production Committee, along with a briefing for the Prime Minister. The Programme also continues to provide briefings to the Minister for Biosecurity and routinely respond to ministerial correspondence, OIA requests, and parliamentary questions.

Delivering Effective Operations

Operations Workstream Aerial surveillance: Completion of a comprehensive three-year aerial surveillance programme covering three million hectares of kauri lands. From this, around 450 sites (individual trees or clumps of trees) were identified for potential investigation to see whether kauri dieback disease is present. GIS mapping of all kauri records: The GIS viewer was set up, and data will continuously be added to build up layers of information. Once complete it will provide a simple visual of where kauri are and the presence or absence of the disease. This work will help inform decision-making around risk and management. Ground-truthing: This work has begun in Auckland and the Waikato, with planning underway in Northland. It will provide a picture of how far the disease has spread, and assist in identifying which areas are most vulnerable. Controlled Area Notices (CANs): Two were issued in the 2017/18 year with another drafted. CANs make cleaning footwear and equipment compulsory at hygiene stations to help prevent the movement of contaminated soil. Developing tactical plans in local, specific areas identified as priority landscapes with land owners and managers: This work is recognising the individual needs of kauri lands so that management of the disease can be tailored to suit the area.

17 Building Knowledge and Tools

Planning and Intelligence Workstream Strategic Science Advisory Group (SSAG): The SSAG was established in March 2018 to provide strategic science advice and develop a prioritised research plan that will incorporate long-term and operational science needs to manage kauri dieback disease. Best practice guidelines and assessment tools: Work is underway making the guidelines more user-friendly to improve knowledge and compliance. This work was extended to include new guidelines for tree nurseries, quarries, rural landowners, and the use of phosphite injections. Oospore deactivation - alkaline solutions: Previous research found that a p.H of 9 and 10 killed the oospore after an exposure time of 48 hours. This project consisted of a desktop review to identify research opportunities in developing an alkaline-based tool. Oospore deactivation – temperature solutions: Previous research shows heating contaminated material above 50C for prolonged periods substantially reduces oospore viability. This research is to identify a treatment protocol that can be used for contaminated soil, potting mix and infected kauri nursery seedlings. Historical Forestry Pathways Project: Examined historical forestry pathways to determine if they played a role in the introduction and spread of the disease. This helps to improve our understanding of disease distribution. Phosphite research (trunk injections in juvenile trees): The completion of five-year field trials show that phosphite successfully healed the trunk lesions of infected trees. While not a cure, this tool can now be operationalised to be used to reduce the impact of the disease on kauri. Further research continues with trunk injections in mature trees, phosphite sprays on trunk lesions, and investigating phosphite toxicity and impact. Cultural Health Indicators: After an initial pilot study to test the principles and practicalities of using the Kauri Cultural Health Indicator monitoring framework to measure kauri forest health, this project is ready to enter into its final phase. This includes three-year monitoring of indicators involving mana whenua. Remote sensing: This work is looking at how to remotely distinguish between kauri and non-kauri and also how to measure the state of kauri health of using LiDAR and hyperspectral sensors. The results could potentially save considerable time and effort for future surveillance and monitoring activities. Rongoa- Engagement Project: An engagement framework is being developed using rongoa- selection as an exemplar. The development of an engagement framework will enable sharing and alignment of ma-tauranga Ma-ori with western practices to provide a mechanism for joint decision-making in environmental management. Alternative host testing: Previous laboratory research found a number of native plants could potentially act as hosts for PA. This five-year project involves field trials of a number of other native species that grow in association with kauri. The work will improve our understanding of disease distribution, and, if proven, the result could influence how we manage the disease. Biocontrol/alternative treatments: This work assessed the efficacy of 10 biological control agents and their effectiveness against PA. The report identifies three products for further testing.

18 Kauri Dieback Programme Annual Operating Report 2017/18 Engaging and Enabling People and Communities

Engagement and Behaviour Change Workstream Social media, kauri dieback website, KauriKonnect newsletter: Providing updates on Programme developments, notification of events, links to pertinent news stories and other information. Review and update the Programme’s communications collateral and signage: To be used in kauri forests and provide information to the public explaining the disease and how they can help prevent further spread. Better hygiene stations: Improvements have been made to the design of a number of hygiene stations to support forest users to clean their footwear and equipment more effectively. Behaviour change workshops: Engaging with different groups of forest users to learn what can be done to increase the correct use of hygiene stations to improve compliance. LEARNZ virtual field trip: More than 70 primary schools participated in a virtual field trip run by LEARNZ and supported by the Programme. This explored the Ma-ori cultural connection to kauri, as well as the science and behaviour change work being done by the Programme.

Credit: Bert Bourgeois.

19 KAURI DIEBACK PROGRAMME www.kauridieback.co.nz Phone 0800 NZ KAURI (695 2874) www.facebook.com/TheKauriDiebackManagementProgramme