A PUBLICATION OF MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND

biosecurityISSUE 77, 1 AUGUST 2007

Pacifi c ant prevention programme New diagnostic test – MAF scientists lead international collaboration Norm Hewitt to front animal empathy campaign

Surveillance 6 1155 2211

editorial

Biosecurity surveillance – a key contributor

Katherine Clift to achieving biosecurity outcomes

Biosecurity magazine AF Biosecurity New Zealand’s spongiform encephalopathy surveillance appointed and you can fi nd their profi les Biosecurity is published six-weekly by (MAFBNZ’s) mission is programmes features on page 8. within these pages. This group has MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, with contents M to protect New Zealand’s The introduction of the OIE’s World responsibility for post-border surveillance regular input from the Department natural advantage by making timely and across the animal, environment, marine of Conservation, Ministry of Health, Animal Health Information System informed biosecurity risk management and plant sectors. Ministry of Fisheries and regional EDITORIAL (WAHIS) during 2006 has emphasised councils. It is of special interest to all Surveillance a key contributor to achieving biosecurity outcomes ...... 3 decisions and implementing them. the importance of timely and accurate This group is leading the development of a those with a stake in the protection Biosecurity surveillance – the collection, information on animal diseases. This national Biosecurity Surveillance Strategy of New Zealand’s economic, FRONTLINE NEWS collation, analysis, interpretation and is coupled with a web-based interface to enable us to meet the expectations of environmental and social assets The battle for the Pacifi c: Keeping invasive ants at bay ...... 4 timely dissemination of information on (WAHID) that provides access to the New Zealand Biosecurity Strategy from the dangers posed by pests and What’s growing on down under? ...... 6 the presence, distribution or prevalence of contributing countries’ animal health and set the direction for future biosecurity diseases. Animal welfare issues are Getting boaties, divers and swimmers on the biosecurity lookout ...... 7 pests and diseases – is a vital part of the also covered. The articles in this data. surveillance activities. See page 16 for more TSE surveillance programme helps maintain high biosecurity system. magazine do not necessarily refl ect Surveillance also contributes to pest information on this exciting project. government policy. animal health status ...... 8 This is the fi rst edition of Biosecurity management by identifying the biodiversity Surveillance is acquiring a heightened Avian infl uenza surveillance expands ...... 9 to focus on surveillance and in this For enquiries about specifi c articles, and distribution of pests and diseases profi le and importance both within New Revamped gypsy moth surveillance programme...... 10 issue you will fi nd numerous examples refer to the contact listed at the end of within New Zealand so that eff ective Zealand and overseas. The continued each article. MAF well represented at the National Agricultural Fieldays ...... 11 of how surveillance is helping achieve intervention can be undertaken to mitigate spread of avian infl uenza worldwide Fruit fl y alert: Vigilant scout does the right thing ...... 12 MAFBNZ’s mission. General enquiries (e.g. circulation their impacts. The marine baseline surveys and unprecedented impacts of mountain Taiwan apple crisis concludes ...... 13 requests or information about Surveillance provides timely and accurate which appear on page 6 are providing pine beetle in British Columbia are just a MAF Biosecurity New Zealand): Demy helps smooth the path for VIP visit ...... 14 information to support biosecurity extremely valuable information on the couple of examples of the issues we face. Biosecurity Magazine, Environment Waikato targets new pests ...... 15 decision making, and eff ective surveillance biodiversity of New Zealand’s marine New pests and diseases are continuing to MAF Biosecurity Appointment to National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee ...... 15 is essential for early detection of pests and environment. They have resulted in emerge and rapid changes are occurring New Zealand, PO Box 2526, diseases within New Zealand. the identifi cation of a large number of in the distribution and impact of the ones Pastoral House, 25 The Terrace, Wellington, New Zealand. BIOSECURITY SYSTEMS In addition, surveillance undertaken as previously unrecorded organisms, both we already know about. This year at Building a biosecurity surveillance strategy ...... 16 native and non-indigenous, some of which the Animal Health Quadrilateral Group Phone: 04 894 0100 part of an incursion response informs MAF Biosecurity New Zealand heralds decisions about managing the incursion are new to science. meeting (Australia, New Zealand, United Fax: 04 894 0720 ‘whole of biosecurity’ system ...... 17 – including the potential for eradication. Surveillance will play an increasing role in States and Canada), the establishment Email: [email protected] The painted apple moth incursion is a detection and monitoring so that we can of a surveillance working group was endorsed. This group will promote Internet: www.biosecurity.govt.nz BIOSECURITY SCIENCE recent example of a successful eradication eff ectively mitigate risks to New Zealand. information exchange and provide Response to a marine incursion of Styela clava ...... 18 campaign, with the pest declared The Pacifi c ant initiatives featured on Editorial enquiries: opportunities for coordinating activities International recognition for New Zealand-developed eradicated in 2006. Targeted surveillance page 4 show how a coordinated regional and research. Editor: Phil Stewart diagnostic test ...... 20 has recently fi nished, but ongoing approach to biosecurity issues can Phone: 04 384 4688 surveillance will be provided through our have real benefi ts both for our Pacifi c We are not able to resource targeted high-risk site surveillance programme. Email: [email protected] BIOSECURITY INTERFACE neighbours and for managing New surveillance programmes for all the Zealand’s risk of invasive ant incursions. potential disease and pest threats New ISSN 1174 – 4618 Norm Hewitt ‘One of the Family’ campaign promotes empathy...... 21 New Zealand’s plants and animals are Animal law issues canvassed at Harvard conference ...... 23 recognised internationally as being Prime Consulting’s International Zealand faces. Passive surveillance – Biosecurity New Zealand fax contacts: reporting of suspected pests and diseases Biosecurity Summit preview: Biosecurity and trade ...... 25 free of many signifi cant pests and Review (2002) of New Zealand’s Policy and Risk: 04 894 0731 diseases. This status is a major asset Biosecurity Surveillance System and by the public – remains an important part of our surveillance activities. “Getting Animal Welfare: 04 894 0728 UPDATES and signifi cantly contributes to our the New Zealand Biosecurity Strategy export trade in primary products. boaties, divers and swimmers on the Border Standards: 04 894 0733 New and amended import health standards ...... 25 (2003) both identifi ed a number of key Surveillance programmes enable us to recommendations for improving New biosecurity lookout” on page 7 recognises Post Border: 04 894 0736 New fees and charges: exports and technical services ...... 25 satisfy international requirements and Zealand’s surveillance system. the vital contribution that people can Enforcement and Audit: Draft import risk analyses and import health standard ...... 26 make to marine surveillance. 09 300 1021 provide trading partners with confi dence Codes of ethical conduct ...... 26 Implementation of these in our disease and pest assurances. New Investigation and Diagnostic recommendations has been delayed, but, While MAFBNZ leads our biosecurity Codes of welfare ...... 26 Zealand’s high health status for bovine Centres: 04 526 5601 to address this, and in recognition of the defences, all New Zealanders are NAWAC annual report available ...... 26 spongiform encephalopathy was recently fundamental importance of surveillance ultimately responsible for biosecurity and recognised by the World Organisation for to meeting MAFBNZ’s objectives, a protecting what is dear to us. Animal Health (OIE) which has granted DIRECTORY ...... 27 dedicated Biosecurity Surveillance Group Katherine Clift negligible risk status to New Zealand. has been established. A number of the Biosecurity Surveillance Manager Cover: Illustration by Words & Pictures Information on our transmissible MAF Biosecurity New Zealand members of this group have been recently

2 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 3 FRONTLINE NEWS The battle for the Pacifi c: Keeping invasive ants at bay The fi ght to keep the Pacifi c region free of some of the world’s worst invasive ant species has stepped up a notch with surveillance at high-risk ports under the umbrella of the Pacifi c Ant Prevention Programme (PAPP).

APP is the implementation arm The fi rst round of PIAS covered 18 of a strategy to protect the Pacifi c high-risk sea and airports in nine Pacifi c P region from the world’s worst island countries (Figure 1), and trained invasive ant species (the Pacifi c Ant over 70 quarantine service staff from 11 Prevention Plan, see Biosecurity issue Pacifi c island countries in surveillance 52:12). While Pacifi c island countries techniques. The good news is that there already host a number of recognised were no detections of high-impact exotic pest ant species, the region is still free ants, nor were any new distributions of of red imported and black imported fi re little fi re ants found. ants (Solenopsis invicta and S. richteri), MAFBNZ, AgriQuality and SPC are Figure 1: Pacifi c island nations covered by the Pacifi c Island Ant Surveillance programme, 2006 (above) and 2007/2008 (below) while the little fi re ant (Wasmannia now planning for the second round of auropunctata) is currently restricted in PIAS, again with funding provided by distribution. Areas of the southern United the Pacifi c Security Fund. This time, States where red imported fi re ants are 13 Pacifi c countries will be visited and in high density, sustain annual economic receive training, and 32 high-risk sites costs to the tune of US$1billion. Pacifi c will be surveyed (Figure 1). The training islands are likely to experience even and surveillance methods have been more severe impacts from these ants streamlined to the needs of Pacifi c island due to continued reliance on subsistence countries, for example, the use of Global agriculture, the favourable environmental Positioning System units instead of aerial conditions, and often reduced ability to site photos. A continuing emphasis is fund expensive pest control programmes. to hand over responsibility and build Yellow crazy ants (Anoplolepis gracilipes) The aim of the PAPP is to prevent the capability for each country to continue trapped inside a bait pot during surveillance establishment of imported fi re ants, and the surveillance in the future without the at high-risk sites. The yellow crazy ant is a pest species that is widespread through the slow or prevent the spread of pest ant involvement of MAFBNZ or AgriQuality. Pacifi c but is not established in New Zealand. species that are already present. The It can form high-density populations, or PAPP operates within an environment Identifi cation to move supercolonies, that can wreak major ecological damage. that traditionally had not recognised ‘in-house’ the threat of invasive ants, nor had will ensure that entomologists already include the development of public A crucial step for the sustainability of Flybusters AntiAnts in New Zealand any capability to detect or respond to working in the Pacifi c islands are able awareness materials such as pest alerts, PIAS, following the second round, is for processing, adding expense and time incursions of new pest ant species. This is to identify the key pest and invasive posters, and a DVD due to be aired on to ensure that the identifi cation of the to the programme. An upcoming ant no longer the case. ant species and can process the samples Pacifi c island television stations soon. samples generated from surveillance taxonomy training course, organised arising out of PIAS. Thirty-fi ve people Future work will focus on continuing can be taken care of ‘in-house’. In the by MAFBNZ and SPC, with the help of from 13 Pacifi c countries will be trained the PIAS, increasing capability to Baseline surveillance for fi rst round, all the samples were sent to some additional ant taxonomy experts, high-impact ants with the aid of a LUCID key (software respond to incursions, development of tool to aid identifi cation) specially emergency response plans and intra- Pacifi c Invasive Ant Surveillance (PIAS), designed for this purpose by University Pacifi c sanitation to prevent the spread of a collaborative eff ort between MAF of California PhD student Eli Sarnat. The ant pests between islands. MAFBNZ will Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ), key will be freely available on the internet continue to work with SPC to further the AgriQuality, the Secretariat of the Pacifi c when complete in about two years’ time, PAPP and continue the battle to protect Community (SPC), Flybusters AntiAnts, and can be updated and modifi ed as the Pacifi c. and funded by the Pacifi c Security Fund, needed. was fi rst conducted in 2006. It was designed to provide baseline surveillance Thanks to SPC’s eff orts to roll out Acknowledgements: for high-impact invasive ants, and the PAPP, PIAS training has also been Disna Gunawardana (MAFBNZ), Ane Hunkin (MFAT), Roy Masamdu (SPC), Lester Mattson delivered to several other Pacifi c countries train Pacifi c-based quarantine staff in (AgriQuality Limited), Simon O’Connor surveillance techniques. and territories, such as Pitcairn Island. In (MAFBNZ), Warea Orapa (SPC), Eli Sarnat addition, the methods were successfully (UCA), Murray Towler (AgriQuality), Viv van used recently to respond to a potential Dyk (Flybusters AntiAnts), Cas Vanderwoude incursion of red imported fi re ants (Vanderwoude Consulting), Nacanieli Waqa Solomon Islands Quarantine Staff conduct (SPC) and Caress Whippy (SPC). following the discovery of a nest on a surveillance for invasive ants following Quarantine staff in Samoa learn how to prepare training by SPC staff . Surveillance is conducted bait pots to use in the surveillance programme. yacht in Auckland that had travelled Megan Sarty, Senior Adviser Environmental and Marine Response, MAF Biosecurity New at high-risk sites where imported goods are The baits, comprising sugar water, sausage meat initially stored or landed. It is most likely through the Pacifi c (Operation Kadridri, Zealand, phone 04 894 0665, and peanut butter inside small plastic jars, are that invasive ants will establish in these areas see Biosecurity issue 75:10). [email protected] left out for around 30 minutes before the lids before spreading to other parts of the islands. are screwed back on and any ants feeding on the Other achievements under the PAPP baits are trapped inside.

4 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 5 FRONTLINE NEWS

NIWA’s Nick Gust fi lming Pest ahoy! a wharf pile as part of the Getting boaties, divers and swimmers on the biosecurity lookout baseline survey and resurvey Knowing what’s out there and hearing if something new appears is crucial to MAF Biosecurity New programme. (Photo: NIWA.) Zealand’s (MAFBNZ’s) eff ectiveness in protecting the marine environment. he country’s marine biosecurity Few would argue that the marine system is underpinned by baseline environment is not worth protecting. T information about species living at To this end, MAFBNZ is encouraging 24 locations. MAFBNZ now undertakes those who are regularly in and a long-term monitoring programme using around the sea, and are best placed to this information to quickly detect any notice something out of the ordinary, new arrivals (see also What’s growing on to keep an eye out for unusual down under? on page 6 opposite). organisms. In addition to this monitoring, further surveillance is undertaken for eight pest Pest identifi cation cards Figure 1: Ports and marinas where biological organisms that, if established here, could Initial communication projects over baseline surveys and/or resurveys have been severely damage the marine environment. the past year have seen marine pest undertaken (red = existing locations, blue = identifi cation cards produced on each WWhat’shat’s ggrowingrowing new locations) These pests are: Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis), Mediterranean of the eight target organisms (above). Baseline surveys and resurveys have now fanworm (Sebella spallanzanii), Northern These laminated, water-resistant oonn ddownown uunder?nder? been conducted at all of the initial 16 Pacifi c seastar (Asterias amurensis), cards have been widely distributed locations selected. These were developed Styela clava sea squirt, European shore to universities and research and undertaken by the National Institute crab (Carcinus maenas), Asian clam organisations that work around Marine biological baseline surveys of Water and Atmospheric Research (Potamocorbula amurensis), marine the coast and to 10,000 readers of (NIWA). The eight recent additions to aquarium weed (Caulerpa taxifolia) and Dive NZ magazine. They have also reveal 18 new exotic invaders the programme have only recently been Japanese seaweed (Undaria pinnitifi da). been distributed at public events surveyed or are due to be surveyed soon. such as boating shows. A poster has Introductions of non-indigenous marine species into new regions The surveys sampled a wide range of Passive surveillance plays a also been produced for widespread have had signifi cant environmental, economic and social impacts habitat types at each of the locations, big part distribution. MAFBNZ poster encouraging divers to play their part in marine biosecurity surveillance. all over the world. This homogenisation of species is now using a range of sampling techniques, As vital as this active monitoring is, Advertising has been placed in including destructive quadrat sampling publications read by marine users, and recognised as one of the major threats to ocean biodiversity. passive surveillance (where the public while emphasising hull cleaning to prevent (taking samples from a defi ned area), opportunities to place editorial material and, importantly, those who are regularly the spread of marine pests, will also diver and surface observations, focusing on biosecurity will also be nowing what native and non- Biological baseline surveys in the marine environment report any provide surveillance tips and information. indigenous species are already in videography, benthic grabs, benthic sleds, suspect discoveries) is a major component pursued. and resurveys a range of baited traps and sediment The communication message around K our marine environment – baseline of MAFBNZ’s marine activities. Work this year will focus on face-to- Initially, 16 locations covering a range cores. Sampling eff ort was distributed in surveillance is simple: If you see a suspect information – is vital if we are to manage The new branding catch cry is “New face work with marine user groups. of risk classifi cations were selected. a way that maximised the likelihood of creature in the marine environment, make marine biosecurity risks eff ectively. Zealand. It’s our place to protect”. The communications team is planning These included 13 major international detecting non-indigenous species. careful note of its location, grab a sample for further participation in boating and To fi nd out what non-indigenous species shipping ports and three marinas of fi rst This sums up the concept that all New if you can and promptly report it to the The 23 port surveys completed to community shows, as well as presenting to have already reached New Zealand’s entry to New Zealand (see Figure 1). An Zealanders are ultimately responsible for MAF Biosecurity New Zealand hotline: date recorded 1,140 species. These groups such as boating and fi shing clubs. coastal waters, and to gather information additional eight locations representing a biosecurity and protecting what’s dear to 0800 80 99 66. comprised 833 native species (73 on marine biodiversity, the New cross section of high-risk and high-value them – it’s not just the Government’s job. Relationship building is also underway percent), 84 non-indigenous species (7 Zealand Government has implemented a locations have recently been added to the Research tells us Kiwis value our seas with local government in order to gain For more information: percent) and 223 cryptogenic (uncertain nationwide biological baseline survey and programme (Figure 1). and coastline – most New Zealanders better intelligence about community www.biosecurity.govt.nz/pest-and-disease- or unknown biogeographic origin) resurvey (repeat survey) programme. This spend time at the beach and many are forums to target with information. response/surveillance-risk-response-and- Sampling methods are based on species (20 percent). There were also will be done at a range of international regularly out on the water, whether it’s management/marine/activities/surveillance internationally accepted protocols an additional 285 specimens that could And a current programme will see the maritime traffi c hubs throughout Brendan Gould, Senior Adviser Surveillance, that allow for a uniform approach for recreation or making a living from development of materials for boaties New Zealand – places where any new not be reliably identifi ed to species MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, phone 04 894 the sea. (both recreational and commercial) that, introductions are more likely to and consistent survey design across all as they were damaged or there is 0548, [email protected] appear fi rst. locations surveyed. insuffi cient information available to allow from page 6 identifi cation to species. Now count them: NIWA staff carrying out the Zealand waters before, about 18 of these Zealand’s international shipping ports value that New Zealanders obtain from all-important measurements during one of the About 126 of the species detected so far new arrivals were being reported for the and marinas. It has signifi cantly increased the marine environment. This, in turn, marine baseline surveys. (Photo: NIWA.) represent potentially new records for New fi rst time. Because this is the fi rst survey our knowledge and understanding of will allow for more eff ective management Zealand. These include 18 non-indigenous of its type, it is unclear how long these non-indigenous marine species and also of these risks. species, 15 native species, 92 cryptogenic species had been resident in New Zealand of New Zealand’s marine biodiversity. For the fi nal reports for completed species and one indeterminate species. before they were found. This fi rst step toward a better surveys, look under ‘2005 Biosecurity Most of the new native and cryptogenic understanding of the scale and scope of New Zealand Technical Papers’ at: species detections represent species that Conclusion marine invasions into New Zealand’s may be new to science. www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/publications/techpap. This baseline work represents some coastal waters also contributes toward html While many of the non-indigenous of the most comprehensive surveying more accurate assessment of the risks Brendan Gould, Senior Adviser Surveillance, species found have been recorded in New of native and non-indigenous marine posed by non-indigenous marine species MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, phone 04 894 continued on page 7 species biodiversity undertaken in New to our native biodiversity, and of the 0548, [email protected]

6 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 7 FRONTLINE NEWS

TSE surveillance programme AAvianvian iinfluenzanfluenza arlier this year, the World All imported cattle, sheep, goats and Organisation for Animal Health helps maintain deer are subject to annual inspection ssurveillanceurveillance expandsexpands E (OIE) recognised New Zealand as and when presented for slaughter their negligible BSE risk. This is the highest brainstem is tested for TSEs with a rapid level of BSE status. high animal screening test. A comprehensive programme prevents the entry into New Zealand of TSE health status European Commission audit agents and prevents the amplifi cation During October 2006, the Food and of these agents if they do enter. These The transmissible spongiform Veterinary Offi ce (FVO) of the European controls have been in place since 1990 encephalopathies (TSEs) are Commission auditors made an onsite and have been steadily strengthened a group of diseases aff ecting assessment of New Zealand’s TSE since then. programme. They were generally happy humans and animals. They with what they found. There were four No notifi able avian Animal disease surveillance are invariably fatal and cause key recommendations resulting from infl uenza has been found characteristic wasting of the this audit. The two recommendations Another major activity is targeted in the commercial meat surveillance of susceptible livestock applicable to TSE surveillance were: brain. Bovine spongiform Wrybills being captured in the Firth of (cattle, sheep, goats and deer). encephalopathy (BSE), or mad • To consider requiring a more detailed chickens or laying hens Thames during a pilot study for the wild bird Contingency plans have been developed clinical history be provided for cattle recently surveyed in New surveillance programme for avian infl uenza. to deal with any suspect cases. The cow disease, is probably the sampled as cases displaying clinical Photo: Simon Fordham, NaturePix. surveillance programme is supported by best known of these diseases. signs consistent with BSE. vian infl uenza (AI) viruses Zealand. This supports an active communications strategy. Others include scrapie of sheep • To consider allocating animals tested are found in bird populations the absence of positive Testing is carried out on New Zealand Surveillance activities fall into two areas: and goats, and chronic wasting in the context of BSE surveillance to A worldwide. They naturally infect wild water birds (often with no fi ndings by previous active resident wild birds (e.g., ducks and • screening by veterinary laboratory the correct subpopulation categories disease of deer (CWD). New associated sign of disease), but can also wrybills) and migratory birds such as diagnosticians of tissues from defi ned in point 4 of the Appendix and passive surveillance. aff ect poultry (such as chickens, ducks godwits, red knots and ruddy turnstones. animals with behavioural signs Zealand is free from all of the 3.8.4 of the Terrestrial Animal Health and geese) and other birds and mammals The survey programme Sampling involves taking cloacal swabs. suggestive of nervous disease TSEs of animals. Code (2006). – including humans. is continuing, and will MAFBNZ also regularly tests dead birds, • monitoring of imported animals MAF Biosecurity New Zealand reported by members of the public, for a AI viruses are classifi ed in terms of their during their life and testing at the end (MAFBNZ) responded to these expand to include other range of exotic diseases including AI. ability to cause disease in chickens. Those of it. recommendations such that: with the potential to cause serious disease types of birds. • Veterinarians are now required to Low pathogenic viruses Since the beginning of 1990, MAF in both birds and humans are referred submit a laboratory submission form has maintained a TSE surveillance to as notifi able avian infl uenza (NAI) young layer chickens are raised, and free- Wild bird surveillance testing has containing information about the and monitoring programme to viruses. NAI viruses are monitored by range layer chickens. No NAI was found. identifi ed 35 diff erent AI viruses in New clinical history in addition to the TSE support international acceptance of a global network for surveillance and Surveys are underway on turkey farms, Zealand during the last 15 years. All of submission form. This commenced on New Zealand’s TSE-free status. The response, which involves national and and surveys in other avian industries (for these have been low pathogenic avian 1 May 2007. programme involves: international animal and human health example, ducks) are being planned. infl uenza viruses, not associated with disease in wild birds. • a TSE awareness campaign for • Points generated from June 2005 agencies. New Zealand is a committed The surveys involve taking blood veterinary practitioners and farmers onwards (the date from when the participant in the network. samples from birds on randomly selected None of the 35 viruses detected was current points system was adopted farms throughout New Zealand, and notifi able avian infl uenza. • all TSEs being classifi ed as notifi able by New Zealand) have been Notifi able avian infl uenza testing them for evidence of NAI. A If you suspect that your birds may be since 1993 recalculated to be consistent with never detected predetermined number of birds were infected with AI, please contact your • a toll-free telephone number to point 4 of the Appendix 3.8.4 of New Zealand has developed and randomly selected from each shed or animal health adviser or the MAF report cases of suspected exotic the Terrestrial Animal Health Code maintained an excellent animal disease fl ock. Random selection ensures that no Emergency Pest and Disease Hotline on disease (2006). The recalculated number of reporting and investigation system for accidental bias has been introduced into 0800 80 99 66. points still substantially exceeds OIE • investigation and diagnostic centre over 30 years, and has never detected the results, and helps ensure the results requirements. • Biosecurity New Zealand thanks support for expert investigation of an occurrence of NAI. In 2006, because are scientifi cally valid. the Poultry Industry Association of suspect cases New Zealand’s negligible risk status for of ongoing international concern about New Zealand and the Egg Producers TSEs is the culmination of years of work human and animal health in relation to Wild birds also tested • a network of MAF-approved Federation of New Zealand for their by MAFBNZ along with the support AI viruses – and with the introduction veterinary diagnostic laboratories In addition to New Zealand’s general cooperation and assistance with avian A yard of prime beef: New Zealand’s high of veterinary practitioners who submit of broader requirements for reporting to reporting system and targeted surveillance infl uenza surveillance programmes. • MAF’s expert veterinary pathologist health status for diseases such as BSE (mad cow samples and livestock owners who have disease) is the result of cooperation between trading partners on the presence of AI in commercial poultry, ongoing wild bird • referral of samples from TSE MAF, veterinarians and livestock owners. alerted practitioners to possible cases for viruses – MAF Biosecurity New Zealand testing for AI viruses has been performed For further information on notifi able investigations, when necessary, to sampling. All involved can take credit for (MAFBNZ) commenced a targeted since 1975. Although migratory wild avian infl uenza: international reference laboratories. a job well done. surveillance programme in the commercial birds are a route for the introduction of www.biosecurity.govt.nz/faq/term/906 Lachlan McIntyre, Senior Adviser Surveillance, poultry industry to provide further AI viruses into a country, New Zealand is Since its inception, the TSE surveillance Surveillance magazine, Vol. 34, No. 2.) Toni Tana and Jaimie Frazer, Senior Advisers phone 04 894 0846, evidence that New Zealand is free of NAI. at low risk. This is because New Zealand Biosecurity Surveillance, Post Border, phone programme has screened the brains of Screening is by histopathology for all [email protected] has no migratory ducks and geese, the 04 894 0540, fax 04 894 0735, thousands of animals. (For summary species and also by rapid screening tests To date, targeted surveys have been birds most likely to act as carriers of AI [email protected], information see the June 2007 edition for suitable cattle samples. All results carried out in broiler (meat) chickens, [email protected] viruses. of MAF Biosecurity New Zealand’s have been negative. indoor layer (egg) chickens, farms where

8 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 9 FRONTLINE NEWS Revamped gypsy moth surveillance programme

Gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar), is one of the most destructive pests of shade, fruit and ornamental trees throughout the northern hemisphere and has been nominated as among the world’s worst invasive alien species in the Global Invasive Species database.

ative to southern Europe, up to 150 percent over the previous year. In response to this, the north Africa, central and Russian government plans to aerial spray forests near export ports. N southern Asia and Japan, The main risk pathway for gypsy moth entering New Zealand the European strain of the moth is as egg masses on containers, used cars and other vehicles has been introduced to the United (e.g., ships) from countries where gypsy moth is present. Most States and Canada with of these risk goods are examined before or at the border. For Figure 5: Oak tree with pheromone trap placed on trunk devastating eff ects. Since 1980, example: the moth has been defoliating During the fi rst two years of the revamped programme, large over 400,000 hectares of forest in • ships from high-risk countries are inspected at the port numbers of moths have been trapped but no gypsy moth species North America each year. In of origin or off shore from New Zealand and egg masses Figure 4: Map showing placement of traps on sampling grid around have been identifi ed. These results demonstrate that the trapping order to detect new infestations, manually removed Ports of Auckland programme is eff ective. The integrity of the trapping procedures over 100,000 pheromone traps • used cars are inspected either in the country of origin or in is checked in a number of ways. This includes placing gypsy are placed each year in Figure 1: Adult male (left) and More than 1,500 traps are deployed nationwide from the moth look-alikes in traps and independent tests of pheromone female (right) Asian gypsy moths New Zealand and decontaminated as required uninfested portions of the United beginning of November until the end of April and inspected effi cacy. – shown for comparison (Photo: • six-sided inspections are carried out on containers from States. USDA APHIS PPQ, regularly by AgriQuality Ltd. Any suspect moths are sent high-risk countries and fumigated when egg masses are For the global invasive species database: www.forestryimages.org) to the Ensis Forest Biosecurity and Protection laboratory found. for identifi cation. If a moth is identifi ed as gypsy moth then www.issg.org/database/species/search.asp?st=100ss&fr=1&str= 1960 1990 2005 MAFBNZ is notifi ed immediately and an investigation and Paul Stevens, Senior Adviser – Surveillance (Plants), Post Border Directorate, response process swings rapidly into action. This happened in MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, phone 04 894 0194, mobile 029 894 0194, Hamilton in 2003. [email protected] MAF well represented at the Figure 2: Spread of gypsy moth in north-eastern United States National Agricultural Fieldays New Zealand carries a signifi cant risk of invasion by moth species as fi nds in Auckland (white-spotted tussock moth On ship and painted apple moth) and Hamilton (gypsy moth) have MAF rubbed shoulders with everything from giant demonstrated. MAFBNZ undertakes targeted surveillance for tractors to the rural bachelor of the year at the 2007 On used tyre Mystery Creek National Agricultural Fieldays, held gypsy moth because: from 13–17 June. • signifi cant amounts of trade occur with countries infested The Fieldays are the biggest show on the agricultural with gypsy moth, providing a recurring and persistent calendar, and this year the event received 125,878 pathway to this country visitors over the four days. As with the past • inspections of imported used vehicles and containers, the three years, MAF, incorporating MAF Biosecurity most common means of transporting gypsy moth egg masses New Zealand (MAFBNZ), maintained a signifi cant internationally, are not 100 percent eff ective presence with a stand in the main Mystery Creek On used car Pavilion. • the climate in much of New Zealand is suitable for the establishment and successful spread of gypsy moth Figure 3: Gypsy moth egg masses intercepted at or before the border It was very much a whole-of-MAF presentation, featuring MAF Policy initiatives around sustainability, • signifi cant numbers of plantation forestry, fruit and the quarantine role and up-to-date MAFBNZ ornamental tree species are susceptible to gypsy moth attack information on avian infl uenza and feeding food Following a review of previous programmes and extensive waste to pigs. • the economic impact of a successful establishment could be consultation, post-border surveillance for gypsy moth was over $100 million. signifi cantly upgraded in 2005. The revamped programme To support these biosecurity messages, volunteers on the stand handed out chicken and pig-shaped key rings, with the exotic diseases message and emergency hotline number on the back. The patterns and risk posed by gypsy moth are continuously involves placement of pheromone traps on preferred host 2 evaluated by MAFBNZ, through risk analysis, monitoring trees in a 750 m grid pattern around high-risk pathways. Volunteers from diff erent business groups manned the stand, with most people enjoying the opportunity to get out of the overseas trends and directly from egg mass interceptions. For These pathways include ports and transitional facilities from offi ce, and to perhaps visit a few stakeholders’ stalls or sites of interest. example, reports from Russia suggest that there will be a large Invercargill to Whangarei. Planning is already underway for next year’s event, the 40th National Agricultural Fieldays, which has ‘The Science of increase in gypsy moth populations next year. This continues the Farming’ as its theme. trend of the last few years where populations have increased by

10 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 11 FRONTLINE NEWS Fruit fl y alert: She’s apples: Vigilant scout does the right thing Of all the biosecurity threats facing New Zealand, the public profi le Taiwan crisis concludes of the fruit fl y is up there alongside foot and mouth disease. Refl ecting the scale of damage these pests could cause if they ever A single live codling moth became established, a nationwide fruit fl y surveillance trapping larva found on a New Zealand programme is undertaken annually by MAF Biosecurity New Zealand Fuji apple had the potential (MAFBNZ) to detect any incursions. The vigilance of people working to make Friday 13 April a real Figure 2: Fruit harvest had just begun in the in horticulture is another important component of the surveillance block of export mandarins black Friday for the pipfruit toolbox – as illustrated on a Gisborne citrus orchard recently. industry. That was the day when Other fruit showing the same type of MAF Biosecurity New Zealand rot lesions were collected from nearby and examined in the laboratory by IDC, (MAFBNZ) was notifi ed that Plant Health Environment Laboratory exports of New Zealand apples diagnostic staff . While no evidence of to Taiwan had been suspended fruit fl y was found on fruit with rot following the detection. lesions, other insects, such as Phorid fl ies, were found. It is possible the scout had ortunately, the actions of seen such an insect, rather than a fruit fl y. MAFBNZ’s Exports group, pipfruit The poor photo quality of the image in industry representatives and the the IPM manual consulted (Figure 3) may F pheromone trapping and pesticide use. A Taiwanese offi cial visited New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Aff airs and Trade also have contributed to initial suspicions Key fi ndings were: in mid-May to verify that changes made (MFAT) quickly rectifi ed the situation, that it was Queensland fruit fl y. • Codling moth populations were to the Taiwan programme were being ruit and vegetable growers, Figure 1: Fruit fl y traps were placed in the resulting in the resumption of exports six met. Taiwan lifted the suspension shortly block of mandarins within normal parameters. packers and distributors – in fact Considering this and other information, weeks after the suspension was imposed after this visit. Fruit in coolstore for the F most people who deal with fruit and the negative results from the national and minimising the impact on pipfruit • A potential window of opportunity duration of the suspension were subject of mandarins (Figure 2), with some fl y host plants – are educated to keep a fruit fl y surveillance programme for the growers. for moth egg laying was identifi ed to re-inspection prior to export. constant look out for signs of the pest. fruit already waiting at a packhouse for Gisborne region during the summer of The suspension marked the fi rst between pesticide applications. The It is not surprising, then, that someone export. This fruit was isolated and put on 2006–2007, the risk that there had been New Zealand has also agreed to review notifi cation of a codling moth interception eff ect of this could not be assessed. might fi nd something to trigger a fruit hold while investigations continued. a fruit fl y incursion was very low. No the science behind pest control measures in 20 years of trade with Taiwan, involving • A possible window of opportunity before the start of the next production fl y investigation. This is what happened Given the time of year, weather further action was recommended. some 80 million fruit – not a bad record of about seven days was identifi ed season. This will determine whether in June this year, when a citrus industry conditions, and the biology of but an event that the industry and during which apples may have been codling moth pheromone trap thresholds employee reported seeing a suspect adult Queensland fruit fl y, it was very unlikely Grower’s cooperation MAFBNZ do not want repeated. unprotected by pesticides. However, are providing an accurate indication fruit fl y. there were fruit fl y on the orchard. It was acknowledged The response to the apples to Taiwan pesticide labels give conservative of pesticide spray times. The pipfruit considered prudent to investigate the IDC was thankful to the grower involved, ‘crisis’ followed an identifi cation, estimates of protection and pesticides industry is also providing growers with Suspect takes fl ight risk further, however. So as not to cause who had shown the utmost cooperation isolation, investigation and were likely to have provided more information on trap monitoring and The employee – a pest and disease scout undue concern in the wider citrus export during the investigation and had improvement plan put into action by a protection during this ‘window’ choice of pesticides. working in a Gisborne mandarin orchard industry, this was done in a low-key way. voluntarily directed harvested fruit to the multidisciplinary and experienced team. period. – spotted an insect on a fruit that she local market rather than export during the Such a timely resumption of the export of had never seen before. The suspect insect No other evidence of fruit fl y three-week fruit fl y trapping programme. MAFBNZ stopped issuing phytosanitary Packhouse/coolstore apples to Taiwan has been a huge relief for all involved. The Taiwan pipfruit fl ew away so, with no specimen available No further evidence of fruit fl y was Knowledge of the investigation was certifi cates when the suspension investigation for identifi cation, the scout followed her restricted to those with a ‘need to know’, notifi cation from Taiwan was received. export market is worth more than $20 found: no fruit fl y adults were caught in • An apparent discrepancy in labelling training by consulting integrated pest with a ‘heads-up’ communication to The orchard from which the codling moth million and likely to grow. traps, and no suspicious fruit damage was clarifi ed and ruled out as an issue management (IPM) manuals and other industry leaders and the fruit packhouse/ originated and the packhouse/coolstore found. The suspect fruit fl y adult had in this case. MAFBNZ, the pipfruit industry and literature to try to identify what she had been seen crawling out of a fruit rot exporter involved. Although this that packed aff ected fruit were immediately MFAT worked well together to overcome seen. Queensland fruit fl y (Bactrocera lesion, immediately after the scout picked investigation proved negative, the scout identifi ed. Other fruit from the same • No non-compliances were identifi ed a hiccup which could have cost New tryoni), a serious pest, seemed the most the fruit during routine sampling. There was congratulated for acting appropriately. source that was en route to Taiwan was in the aff ected packhouse/coolstore. Zealand not only large export earnings identifi ed and the exporter advised that likely match. were no fruit fl y eggs, larvae or damage Reports like these form the basis of Based on the stage of development of the but also a reputation for supplying a MAF certifi cation had been withdrawn. MAF was notifi ed through the pest and typical of fruit fl y on this fruit. general surveillance and are an important codling moth larva intercepted in Taiwan, quality horticultural product. component of our surveillance system. disease hotline and an investigation An in-depth investigation followed to the investigation concluded that the Changes to the apples to Taiwan was immediately launched. This This investigation highlighted the determine where the break-down in the codling infestation must have occurred compliance programme can be seen at: involved staff of MAFBNZ’s apples to Taiwan compliance programme at the orchard. No defi nite discrepancies importance of frontline industry staff in www.biosecurity.govt.nz/commercial-exports/ Investigation and Diagnostic Centre surveillance, of specimen collection, and had occurred. The investigation looked at were detected in any area of investigation plant-exports/compliance-programmes/apple- (Plants and Environment). An of appropriately skilled diagnosticians the orchard and the packhouse/coolstore but improvements were identifi ed. to-taiwan incursion investigator arrived at the pathway. for rapid identifi cation of the suspect Initial fi ndings were reported to Taiwan Peter Johnston, Senior Adviser, Exports, Border orchard the following day to oversee organism. followed by a list of improvements, Standards, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, placement of fruit fl y traps (Figure 1) Orchard investigation [email protected] Graham Burnip, Incursion Investigator (Plants immediate and longer term changes to be and carry out interviews. Figure 3: Images of adult fruit fl y as they and Environment), Investigation and Diagnostic This investigation focused on the grower’s made to the apples to Taiwan compliance Photo ©iStockphoto.com/Dorothy Booth-Homen. Harvesting had just begun in the block appear in the citrus pest and disease manual, Centre, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, Lincoln, pest management practices, in particular programme. (See below for weblink.) within a ‘Biosecurity risks’ section phone 03 943 3208, [email protected]

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The unique needs of each Demy helps smooth the path for VIP visit region and its communities Environment are catered for under the Philippines-born MAF and associated MPs. MAFBNZ Biosecurity Act 1993, when met with the Consular General it comes to the development Waikato targets Biosecurity New Zealand Marcos AS Punsalang in of regional pest management (MAFBNZ) Quarantine Offi cer Wellington to ensure the mangoes strategies (RPMS) by regional Demy Dillague was able to would be accompanied by the new pests put his background to good appropriate phytosanitary councils. Each region has the certifi cation. use recently when assisting fl exibility to deal appropriately All luggage, including hand Pets can be pests: Environment Waikato will control goldfi sh in waterways, as it does other pest with quarantine clearances with pests which may not fi sh such as koi carp. Photo ©iStockphoto.com/Andrew Cribbs. baggage, for the 98-strong VIP be a problem nationally or for the State visit to New delegation and 16 crew was Zealand of Philippines x-ray screened by Demy prior to in other regions, but are President Gloria Macapagal loading the aircraft in Manila to troublesome locally. ensure no biosecurity risk goods Arroyo. had been packed. Fortunately this Environment Waikato’s ach year a number of world delegation had been well briefed, 2007–2012 RPMS illustrates leaders are pre-cleared resulting in nil seizures. this fl exibility, and has set out E off shore by MAFBNZ with Demy also needed to spray the strategies for tackling new arrangements usually made through Demy Dillague (left) and Customs Offi cer Paul Dunn cabin and holds of the aircraft biodiversity threats in the the Visits and Ceremonial Offi ce of (right) with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo while prior to departure from Manila, the Department of Internal Aff airs. waiting for the front doors of the VIP aircraft to be region. A revised version of a opened after landing at Wellington. and reports hearing an announcement At the request of the New Zealand in Filipino stating “there would be a strategy in place since 2002, Embassy in Manila, Demy, who is Philippine Airlines fl ew Demy and slight delay due to strict quarantine stationed at the Auckland international it refl ects changes in pest Wellington Customs Offi cer Paul Dunn requirements in New Zealand”. terminal, was deployed to Manila to management over the past to Manila via Sydney. Arrangements Demy’s language ability and rapport pre-clear the Diplomatic A320 aircraft were made directly through the Manila with the business delegation and crew fi ve years and was developed arriving directly into Wellington on Embassy for Demy to inspect 20 trays helped smooth the way for an incident- Monday 28 May. after consultation with the of fresh mangoes given as presidential free trip for this very important group of community about pests of gifts to Prime Minister Helen Clarke visitors to New Zealand. local concern.

From Manila to Auckland ne new pest listed is Japanese the University of Waikato’s Centre for knotweed (Polygonum Biodiversity and Ecology Research. Demy Dillague was born, grew up and educated in Manila. He has a Bachelors Appointment to Ocuspidatum), which the council “Goldfi sh are popular tank animals, Degree in Mechanical Engineering and Diploma in Chemical Engineering. wants to eliminate before it gets but when they’re released into the National Animal Before emigrating to New Zealand with his family in the late 1990s he worked established. This grows 2–3 metres high as a power plant designer and as a pole, trenching and manhole designer for a environment they’re a real menace,” says and quickly forms dense stands that Ethics Advisory telecommunications company. University of Waikato associate professor block out all other plants. Brendan Hicks. Unable to fi nd similar work in New Zealand, he worked as everything from Committee “Weeds like this pose a real threat to brochure distributor to waiter, cleaner/driver, machine setter, McDonald’s “They are omnivorous feeders and one of Fruit of the Philippines: Part of the manager and Sky City cashier – until MAF ‘discovered’ him as a Quarantine biodiversity in our region, which is why consignment of 20 trays of mangoes brought the few fi sh that consistently eat plants. Assistant in 2001. He became a Quarantine Offi cer in March 2004. we need to eradicate them before they The Minister of to New Zealand as a gift to Prime Minister That means our native plant communities get out of control,” says Environment Agriculture recently Helen Clark and MPs. are under direct threat from them. Waikato chair Jenni Vernon. announced the “Goldfi sh are prolifi c breeders, capable of appointment of a Other plants have been upgraded to new member to laying 250,000 eggs per female. They can pests because they have the potential to the National Animal also increase growth of blue-green algae PEOPLE become serious problems if they spread Ethics Advisory and the university fi nds them in nearly Committee. from public and private gardens. every waterway it monitors under its pest Dr David Morgan IN BIOSECURITY Chocolate vine (Akebia quinata), despite fi sh programme. In many waterways, has been appointed to replace Dr its sweet sounding name, is one example. goldfi sh outnumber koi carp, which is Philip Lyver, who resigned from the Ban-Na Ang joined the Post Border Lora Peacock (BSc, MSc (credit), Dip Teaching, The RPMS now prohibits the sale of committee. Dr Morgan’s term expires Directorate of MAF Biosecurity New Zealand PhD) joined the Post Border Directorate of also an aquatic menace.” this plant and Environment Waikato on 31 October 2009. Nominated by (MAFBNZ) as an Adviser in the Biosecurity MAFBNZ as an Adviser in the Biosecurity Under the revised RPMS, the release of Landcare Research New Zealand Ltd, will destroy it wherever it occurs outside Surveillance Group in June. Before joining Surveillance Group in June. Lora previously goldfi sh into new parts of the region is Dr Morgan will provide knowledge home gardens. MAFBNZ, Ban-Na was an agronomist with a spent two years working in plants risk analysis prohibited and Environment Waikato will and experience of environmental and conservation management. He is a senior private plantation crop research company (in the former Pre-clearance Directorate) where Some pests are already widespread, but control goldfi sh as it does other pest fi sh. scientist with Landcare and chairs its in Malaysia where she was responsible for she carried out risk analysis for import health have only recently been recognised as their pests, diseases and weeds management standards. Before that she completed her For more information about the RPMS animal ethics committee. The focus of his serious problems. programmes. Ban-Na received her BAgSci and PhD in Entomology under a teaching fellowship at Lincoln University, visit the policy and plans section of research has been control technologies for vertebrate pests. Dr Morgan is also a MAgSci from the Agricultural University of Malaysia in 1986 and 1988, Canterbury. Goldfi sh, for example, are now Environment Waikato’s website: MAF-accredited reviewer of organisations respectively. Thereafter she received her PhD in Entomology from classifi ed as pests when they occur in www.ew.govt.nz with a code of ethical conduct. Virginia Tech in 1992. the wild, following a submission from

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Building a biosecurity PEOPLE MAF Biosecurity New Zealand surveillance strategy IN BIOSECURITY heralds ‘whole of biosecurity’ system Chris Houston has recently joined The Biosecurity Surveillance Group has started work on a project to the Post Border Since 1 July it has been goodbye AF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) brings a closer connection develop a strategy for a cross-sector national surveillance system Directorate of MAF Biosecurity New Zealand and hello between biosecurity policy development, risk assessment, standard that will set the direction for New Zealand’s future surveillance Biosecurity New M setting and operational functions – working to a common vision and Zealand (MAFBNZ) MAF Biosecurity New Zealand. strategy and with clearer accountabilities, better defi ned roles and stronger activities. An implementation plan will follow, to enable the vision as a Senior Adviser This milestone has involved far business support. and recommendations of the strategy to be put into action. (Animals) within more than a minor name change. the Biosecurity The integrated organisation is led by Dr Barry O’Neil, Assistant Director- Surveillance It heralds an important structural General Biosecurity. The New Zealand biosecurity supporting systems and processes that are Group. Chris will be working in animal change within MAF: the integration While those interacting with MAFBNZ may not notice much change on the surveillance, on projects including surveillance system is held in the highest required for surveillance. These include: front lines, the integration is adding considerable strength to New Zealand’s surveillance for transmissible spongiform of the former Biosecurity New regard internationally and maintaining biosecurity system, says MAF Director-General, Murray Sherwin. “I expect to • prioritisation encephalopathies (TSEs) and porcine Zealand and MAF Quarantine this reputation requires continued see real gains from having our policy and standards staff more closely aligned • communications reproductive and respiratory syndrome eff ort. In 2002, a review by Prime (PRRS), apiculture surveillance and Service. to those implementing these policies and standards, and vice versa. In that Consulting International identifi ed • governance developing the biosecurity surveillance way, we are continuing to build in the vision conveyed in the 2003 Biosecurity several areas where the New Zealand • funding strategy. Before joining MAFBNZ, Chris Strategy.” worked as an epidemiologist and biosecurity surveillance system could • methodology In addition to the structural integration, there are a number of individual be improved. Recommendations made policy adviser for the United Kingdom projects underway, involving border strategy, regulatory design, IT • information management Department for Environment, Food and by the Prime review, and by Tiakina requirements and capability needs for frontline staff . Aotearoa: Protecting New Zealand • research Rural Aff airs, focusing on the prioritisation of resource allocation for animal health The new structure and functions are summarised in the diagram below: (the New Zealand Biosecurity Strategy) • roles and welfare issues, animal population have been considered, and as a result a • responsibility data collection and reporting and comprehensive strategy for the future of • capability. antimicrobial resistance of concern to biosecurity surveillance in New Zealand veterinary and public health. is being developed. The subsequent implementation plan will Tracy Welman establish a path to move from the current The fi rst step of the biosecurity joined the Post state to the preferred future biosecurity surveillance strategy has commenced, Border Directorate surveillance system. during which a review of the current of MAFBNZ in May state of biosecurity surveillance in New We look forward to keeping you as Team Support Zealand will be undertaken. informed as work on the biosecurity Offi cer for the surveillance strategy progresses. For Animal Response The second step is to develop a cohesive Team. She provides further information on the strategy, or vision and consistent principles and support to the to go on a stakeholder update email list, approaches for the future biosecurity team as well as PA email: surveillance system in New Zealand. administration to This strategy will consider a number [email protected] Andre van Halderen, Team Manager of the of component areas that refl ect the Animal Response Team.

What the biosecurity surveillance strategy will do

The surveillance strategy intends to: • develop consistent quality measures • identify the current and future • identify objectives for the for surveillance activities, so infrastructure requirements needed surveillance system within stakeholders will have confi dence to support the surveillance system, New Zealand, based on overall in New Zealand’s biosecurity and including systems and people biosecurity goals surveillance systems • identify gaps in the knowledge • identify the roles, responsibilities • defi ne the underlying principles and and science required to support and needs of partners and approaches that guide surveillance surveillance activities to ensure that contributors to the surveillance activities programmes are based on the best system to improve collaboration for • identify surveillance partners available science and technology a more integrated approach and develop an agreed model • identify gaps in the knowledge • develop a risk-based prioritisation for working together to improve and science required to support system that can be used within and decision-making and to increase surveillance activities to ensure that across sectors, ensuring effi cient use resourcing options programmes are based on the best of resources available science and technology.

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the time of the research, then recruitment or spread over short Response to a marine reclassifi ed as Styela clava upon distances on conveyers such as review. These reports confi rmed buoys, trees or wood substrata. that Styela clava was present Long-distance spread may, incursion of Styela clava in the Hauraki Gulf in August however, become more important 2002 and Lyttelton Harbour in By Andrew McFadden and Thomas Rawdon, Incursion Investigators (Animals), Investigation and Diagnostic Centres, MAFBNZ; and Brendan Gould, as the Styela clava biomass Senior Adviser (Marine), Post Border, MAFBNZ May 2002. Anecdotal reports increases in the Hauraki Gulf. from aquaculture personnel More boats will become fouled, n 14 October 2005, MAF Christchurch during October 2005. from Waiheke Island suggest the Figure 2: A mussel line heavily infested with and there are few or no controls Biosecurity New Zealand The invasive sea squirt Moderate densities (1–10 individuals organism may have been in the Styela clava (examples of Styela clava identifi ed on movement of fouled boats. As (MAFBNZ) initiated a large- by arrows). O per m2) were found in the Auckland Hauraki Gulf some years before evidenced by Styela clava-infested Styela clava had not been scale response to an incursion of Styela August 2002. locations. Styela clava was also found in yacht race using a risk profi le based on boats in Northland, Nelson reported in New Zealand clava (the clubbed tunicate sea squirt). the Westhaven Marina, Auckland, and There were 378 reports made of these criteria and arranged for them to be and Wellington, fouled boats provide a As part of the response, Styela clava was before its discovery around there was evidence of infestation in the possible Styela clava sightings between inspected if required. Of the 37 inspected, suitable pathway for transfer of Styela declared an unwanted organism under wider Waitemata Harbour. Infestation 30 September 2005 and 30 October two were aff ected by Styela clava. clava between marine locations. Auckland and at Lyttelton the Biosecurity Act 1993. was lower at Lyttelton, with only 23 2006, 61 percent of these from coastal in 2005. Incursion response Styela clava was found and removed On one of these fouled boats, recently Initial response objectives were to delimit specimens found throughout the port. Auckland. at the time of inspection from a barge returned from overseas, there was an work since then has shown the extent of Styela clava infestation Only three of the 25 positive report case moored at Kawau Island (Hauraki incidental fi nding of three crustaceans and determine whether eradication was Nationwide surveys that the pest was present specimens were from outside the Hauraki Gulf), and an ocean-going ship laid up not previously recorded in New Zealand. feasible. for at least three years Evidence from the Auckland survey Gulf: (Northland, Picton and Nelson). All in the Port of Auckland, but destined for This demonstrates how easily new and public reporting suggested that prior to its discovery – and Styela clava was identifi ed in the Viaduct three were from the hulls of moored boats. Northland. organisms can enter New Zealand’s Harbour, Auckland on 8 September 2005 Styela clava was widespread through marine environment. MAFBNZ is The Northland specimens were collected In addition, over the 2005 summer that it may start spreading and the Port of Lyttelton, Christchurch the Hauraki Gulf and that it had been currently researching boat hull fouling for from a boat berthed at Opua in the Bay boating season, MAFBNZ marine to other parts of New the following month. Until then, Styela there for several years. It was likely that the purposes of developing border control of Islands. The boat had returned to New advisers visited marinas throughout New clava was not known in New Zealand. the high volume boat traffi c from the standards to mitigate risk of new marine Zealand’s coastal marine Zealand after sailing overseas. Zealand to educate the public and to The most likely pathway was adult Hauraki Gulf had seeded other locations introductions. encourage regular voluntary cleaning and environment on fouled hulls specimens on the hull or internal recesses with Styela clava. The Nelson specimen was found on a boat that had been moored long-term in anti-foul treatment of boats. Most of the Styela cava surveillance was once the biomass of existing of international vessels visiting New Given the evidence that Styela clava Nelson Port. Searches located a single live centred on ports and marinas; however, populations builds up. Zealand. may have spread beyond the Hauraki adult and one dead adult on another boat Impact assessment of aff ected the organism was reported from a wide The organism can survive a wide range of Gulf, further surveys were carried out moored nearby, but no specimens were aquaculture sites range of marine habitats, including marine environmental conditions. Native at 26 other marine locations around soft sediments attached to buried shell found on port structures. The second Seven aquaculture farms were found to to the coastal waters around North New Zealand between November and fragments. Extensive habitats such as boat had been relocated from Auckland be aff ected by Styela clava. Six of these Korea, Japan, Northern China December 2005 and at fi ve locations over these are diffi cult to survey. Harbour to Nelson Port in the past two had low numbers of the organism. The and Siberia, it has invaded June 2006. Styela clava was detected years and may have been infested when seventh, a mussel farm, was heavily Where populations are low, detection is many other parts of the world. at two of these: Magazine Bay Marina, it arrived. The period that both of these diffi cult. At locations where it is easier to Lyttelton and the Tutukaka Marina infested (Figure 2). On this farm, an Initial response management Nelson boats had been moored suggests detect, it is more likely that Styela clava in Northland. At Tutukaka only two additional labour unit was required to was three tiered. The that a small population of Styela clava is well established, making eradication specimens were found. cope with large quantities of Styela clava National Response Centre may exist, although none has been found. removed from mussel lines during harvest. almost impossible. (NRC), Wellington provided Results from the nationwide survey can The Picton report consisted of a single Despite the high infestation, no eff ect on As evidence for the pathway for transfer ministerial advice, technical be seen in Figure 1. juvenile specimen found on a boat mussel growth was observed. MAFBNZ of infestation between Auckland support, public and media In conjunction with the surveys, NIWA recently arrived in Waikawa marina from has identifi ed the need for a longitudinal and Lyttelton is weak, the observed communications, and conducted experiments to determine the Auckland Viaduct. No further specimens study to quantify the aff ect of Styela populations of Styela clava from these consultation with aff ected sensitivity of detecting Styela clava at were found in the marina. Three further clava on the quantities, quality and size two locations may be due to multiple stakeholders. diff erent levels of water clarity. Results individual specimens of Styela clava have of mussels. incursions. Indeed, preliminary genetic The Investigation and indicated there was a low probability of been found on three separate vessels analysis of Styela clava specimens Diagnostic Centre (IDC, detecting small numbers of Styela clava at moored in a Wellington marina. These Discussion indicates that specimens may have come Wallaceville) managed fi eld most survey locations. are thought to have come from a heavily MAFBNZ could not have responded from more than one overseas source. teams as directed by the NRC. fouled yacht that had come to the marina Investigation of fi eld reports to the Styela clava incursions without In the case of a marine incursion such Surveillance teams delimited from Auckland. support from the public, or without the as this, the high cost of response, low the extent of Styela clava MAFBNZ encouraged the general public assistance of other agencies including detection probabilities, likely organism infestations at the initial and marine groups to report suspected At-risk boat inspections NIWA, Kingett Mitchell, Cawthron, impact and the lack of barriers to further incursion sites, and at other sightings of Styela clava. Vessels fouled with reproductively mature regional councils and AgriQuality Ltd. introductions and internal spread need key locations around New Styela clava can convey the organism If Styela clava could not be excluded, While high densities of Styela clava were to be considered in decisions about Zealand’s coast. to unaff ected locations. The operations specimens were requested for found in the Hauraki Gulf, in other responses to future incursions. group received a number of reports of identifi cation by NIWA. Once it became locations it was either not detected, or • This article is an edited version of Detailed site surveys potentially aff ected boats. Owners were apparent that a wide area within the found at very low levels of infestation. a paper which fi rst appeared in contacted and risk profi led, based on The National Institute of Water Hauraki Gulf was infested, specimens Given that Styela clava had been in the Surveillance magazine, Vol. 34, No. 1, previous anti-foul treatment and manual and Atmospheric Research were usually only requested when they Hauraki Gulf for at least three years, its March 2007. For the original paper, cleaning of the boat, frequency of boat (NIWA) was contracted to came from outside this region. absence in many other locations implies visit: usage, and the presence of macro fouling Figure 1: Spatial distribution of Nationwide surveillance carry out delimiting surveys The operations group received two its spread via ‘conveyers’ such as boats www.biosecurity.govt.nz/publications/ and report cases confi rmed as being infested with Styela on the hull. of the Viaduct Harbour and independent reports of historical over large distances may be unusual. surveillance/2007 clava. Positive boat report cases do not necessarily imply Freemans Bay, Auckland established populations in the locations where Styela clava infestations of Styela clava. Specimens A surveillance team assessed 232 boats Most of the spread within the Hauraki fouled boats were detected. and the Port of Lyttelton, collected had been mis-identifi ed at entered into the 2005 Coastal Classic Gulf is likely to have come from localised

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Following acceptance of the new Norm Hewitt’s mission: PCR test for infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus, exports to Europe of bovine semen from animals like these LIC premier sires can now ‘One of the Family’ campaign resume. Photo: LIC. promotes empathy

Norm Hewitt, rugby hard man and dancing star, is a man on a mission. From late last year he has put his considerable reputation and skills behind the animal empathy message of the Royal New Zealand SPCA education initiative: One of the Family.

orm is visiting schools throughout the country with SPCA Education Offi cer Shelley Ryan, delivering an hour-long International recognition N presentation to thousands of intermediate-aged (11–12 years for new NZ-developed molecular test to determine infectious bovine rhinotracheitis old) children. (IBR) status of bovine semen for international trade The One of the Family programme is designed to teach children that animals have feelings and needs, that humans have a responsibility to By Jianning Wang; Joseph O’Keefe; Susan Cork; Della Orr, Animal Health Laboratory, IDC respect those feelings and meet their needs, and that the rewards for doing that are the loyalty and love that the animals return. Scientists at the Animal Test required for trade which is at least twice as sensitive as virus isolation from semen. Health Laboratory of the For international trade, it is frequently Animal cruelty and human violence Investigation and Diagnostic required that no IBR virus is present in International acceptance of this PCR While Norm Hewitt is a household name, Huntly teenagers Wirimu bull semen. Virus isolation using a cell procedure required approval by the OIE. Karena and Sahn Papa are less well known. Yet their actions Centre, Wallaceville, have culture system is used routinely and is The development of the test was funded provided motivation for this major education initiative. developed a new molecular an OIE-prescribed test. This procedure by MAF and Livestock Improvement In 2005, Karena (17) and Papa (18) poured glue over three stray cats test for detection of infectious can take weeks to complete, however. Corporation (LIC). Before the test could caught in a trap behind a commercial building and set fi re to it. Their be used, it had to be validated to meet bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) It is laborious and can lack sensitivity. crime was caught on video as were the blood-chilling cries of the Moreover, technical diffi culties may specifi c criteria for assay validation by burning cats.1 Their lack of remorse or understanding of the cruelty virus in bovine semen. This be encountered with virus isolation in the OIE. Validation also included an of their actions prompted the education campaign. test has been accepted by the examination and interpretation of test inter-laboratory ring test using an agreed Animal cruelty is directly linked to human violence. There has been results, due to the toxic eff ects caused by protocol and well-designed test samples. World Organisation for Animal considerable research that conclusively shows that violent criminals the semen in cell culture. This required extensive collaboration Health (OIE) as a prescribed with other laboratories, including OIE have begun their ‘careers’ by abusing or torturing animals. Studies Previously, the European Union (EU) test for international trade, reference laboratories in the EU. of US prison inmates reveal that as many as 75 percent of violent accepted a negative virus isolation test off enders had early records of animal cruelty. There is also a high and has opened the way for Norm Hewitt with daughter Elizabeth and one of the 2 as being suffi cient for the importation of International collaboration to correlation between family violence and animal cruelty. bovine semen. This changed in December family’s two cats. a resumption of New Zealand continued on page 22 2004, because of concerns raised by some validate test exports of bovine semen to researchers about the low sensitivity of Scientists at the Animal Health from page 20 Europe. the virus isolation test. From 1 January Laboratory (AHL) have been in September 2006, and ratifi ed by the Malcolm Banks, the head of the OIE appreciated New Zealand’s eff orts and BR is caused by a bovine herpesvirus 2005, only semen from IBR sero-negative collaborating on this project with OIE as a prescribed test for international Reference Laboratory at Weybridge, the outcome of this project. The project and is an economically important bulls may be exported to the EU. There scientists from eight countries in Europe trade at its 75th General Session of OIE described the work as “a long road” and results have been published in the and North America since 2005. Six I disease of cattle. Several diff erent was a need, therefore, for a more in May 2007. This is the fi rst real-time off ered congratulations for having “the international journals of virology and sensitive method to be developed that laboratories from fi ve countries, including strains of herpesvirus infect cattle. Bovine PCR assay that has been approved as a initiative to begin and the determination microbiology. herpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1) causes IBR could be acceptable to the EU. the OIE Reference Laboratory for IBR prescribed test for international trade, to complete this diffi cult job”. Dr P Recently, the European Commission and infectious pustular vulvovaginitis/ at Weybridge (United Kingdom) and the and also the fi rst New Zealand-developed Thoren, of the OIE Collaborating Centre OIE Collaborating Centre for PCR at notifi ed MAF that the suspension of balanoposthitis (IPV/IBP). This virus can Real-time PCR test proposed diagnostic test accepted by the OIE. for Molecular Diagnostics in Sweden, Uppsala (Sweden) were involved in the intra-community trade in semen imported be transmitted via respiratory and genital At that time, there was no internationally The success of this project has raised described the study as “a very good validation of the new test. Representatives from New Zealand between 2004 and routes, and by artifi cial insemination with accepted polymerase chain reaction IDC’s technical profi le internationally. example of successful and meaningful from participating laboratories met twice 2007 had been withdrawn, as it was virus-contaminated semen. (PCR) test available for this purpose. It is also an international endorsement cooperation”. (The PCR test is of superior sensitivity in the United Kingdom and New Zealand considered there was no signifi cant IBR BoHV-1-infected bulls may potentially of the quality of the diagnostic methods Dr Jianning Wang presented the results of and specifi city when compared with virus to exchange technical information and risk. The suspension was lifted following shed virus intermittently in their used by New Zealand to facilitate trade. this project at the seventh International isolation.) This lack of an acceptable test review results. They compiled a complete the negative IBR results of samples of semen, long after the primary infection. test validation dossier, which was Congress of Veterinary Virology in Therefore, cattle infected with BoHV-1 are potentially put the New Zealand bovine New Zealand eff ort recognised semen, using the newly developed test. semen export trade in jeopardy. To submitted to the OIE for accreditation. Portugal in September 2006, where he regarded as lifelong carriers and potential internationally also met with the President of the OIE For further information on exports of shedders of the virus. BoHV-1 is endemic address this, we proposed an alternative The new PCR test was fi rst approved by New Zealand’s eff orts and achievement Biological Standard Commission and the germplasm: in New Zealand. diagnostic method, a real-time PCR test, the OIE Biological Standard Commission in this fi eld have been well recognised President of the European Society for www.biosecurity.govt.nz/exports/animals/ continued on page 21 and appreciated internationally. Dr Veterinary Virology. They both highly guides/iat-edep-001.htm

20 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 21 INTERFACE

Norm Hewitt’s mission: from page 21 Pets are part of the family in most New to understand that they can change or In Norm’s words, about his beautiful Zealand households but if the family aff ect their future environment, be that little daughter Elizabeth, “I’m teaching experiences violence, they can become domestic or global. her to be kind to animals so she’ll grow targets as well. While they are often an It is these children that Norm Hewitt up to respect others.” Animal law issues important source of comfort and stability talks to, giving them the heartfelt story to the victims of abuse, they may become References: of his personal journey, his demons and “Remember When You Thought the target of threats, injury or death as a 1. Masters, C. ‘The Huntly cat killings his dreams and how his animals provided You Could Change the World? canvassed at way of controlling or punishing others in comfort and love in times when that that shocked the nation’. New the family. was most needed. His message is that it Zealand Herald. You Still Can.” That was doesn’t take violent behaviour to prove http://www.nzherald.co.nz/ the theme of a conference Harvard conference Research shows abuse links By Dr Ian Robertson strength or control, that kindness is organisation/story.cfm?o_ sponsored by the Animal Legal A 1997 survey in the United States found powerful and fulfi lling and, above all, id=400&ObjectID=10345944 Defense Fund and hosted by the that 85 percent of women and 63 percent kindness is reciprocated by the animals 2. Shelburne, E, DVM, Portland of children entering refuges reported and people it is extended to. Veterinary Medical Association, prestigious Harvard Law School animal welfare law from diff erent enquiries and potential claims. Two incidents of animal abuse in their homes. One of the Family presents an opportunity Social Sentinel: Acts of animal cruelty in April 2007. jurisdictions to illustrate the speakers provided important insights Children who have witnessed domestic for children to choose to be kind. can point to an off ender’s potential inconsistencies and gaps within to cases where lawyers were either violence or have been the victims of abuse for violence against humans. contemporary animal welfare legislation. defending or prosecuting a case involving may become animal abusers, imitating the However, empathy education research http://www.arkonline.com/violence. he approximately 400 attendees He said issues of sustainability and the standard of veterinary care. violence they have seen or experienced.3 shows that boys resist showing kindness, html included lawyers, professors, sentience belong in animal welfare fi nding it confl icts with the macho image Chris Green, a graduate of Harvard Law New Zealand studies reveal similar trends. doctors, veterinarians, CEOs legislation, and that legislators may that they aspire to from a young age. 3. Ascione, FR; Weber, C; Wood, DS. T School, and a member of the American A recent study by the New Zealand and students considering cutting- need to consider perspectives outside The most eff ective approach has been ‘The abuse of animals and domestic Veterinary Medical Law Association, Veterinary Association’s animal welfare edge approaches to issues of animal traditional western concepts of animals. a strong male role model showing that violence: A national survey of shelters recently wrote The Future of Veterinary representative, Virginia Williams, asked protection. toughness and humanity are not mutually for women who are battered’. Society Reminding the audience of the BSE Malpractice Liability in the Care of New Zealand veterinarians about their exclusive.8 and Animals, 1997; 5(3): 205–218. Dr Bernard Rollin (who spoke on animal experience, Ian said that in view of Companion Animals. He has also experience of the incidence of intentional ethics at a New Zealand poultry science increasing interdependence in a global participated in the California Veterinary animal abuse. It showed 63 percent of vets In an interview with Kim Hill after his 4. Williams, V. Veterinarian animal conference in 2005), Bruce Wagman, community, systems based on best Medical Association’s Non-Economic had seen cases of deliberate abuse and 16 amazing performances in Dancing with abuse study. Professor David Favre, Paul Waldau, practice – rather than currently accepted Recovery Task Force, helping the percent were aware of or suspected violence the Stars, Norm expressed his desire to be http://www.vets.org.nz/Publications/ Chris Green and Adam Karp were among minimum standards – were an important organisation explore legislative options to the families of the abused animals.4 such a role model, teaching children that Vets@Work/2005/[email protected] the list of speakers who addressed the legal step to implement the advances to address the profession’s increasing it doesn’t take violence to make a good An Australian survey of Women’s 5. Kern, C. Animal abuse and family conference, along with Professor Song made by organisations such as the World liability exposure. He later acted as man. Accepting the SPCA off er to do just Refuges5 returned similar results to the violence. Wei from China, Katrina Sharman from Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), an adviser to the American Veterinary that, Norm is the all-important x-factor US study, and the Royal New Zealand http://www.nzfvc.org.nz/accan/ Australia, and Dr Ian Robertson from and to avoid signifi cant risks to humans Medical Association’s Task Force on the in One of the Family. SPCA annual ‘List of Shame’ details papers-presentations/abstract194v. New Zealand/England. and animals alike. He said a global Legal Status of Animals, addressing those shtml case after case of intentional animal Early successes In addition to the use of animals in model would serve both as a guide for same issues at the national level. abuse – many perpetrated by children or 6. Royal New Zealand SPCA Animals’ agriculture and research, the conference future animal welfare developments by Adam Karp exclusively practises young adults – while our family violence The feedback received from school staff Advocate, List of Shame. addressed issues of animal hoarding, legal governments and non-governmental animal law. He is a vice-chair of the statistics rise each year.6 and pupils has been 100 percent positive. http://www.rspcanz.org.nz/news/ organisations (NGOs), and as a blueprint Norm Hewitt’s story, delivered with strategies, successes and developments American Bar Association’s Animal Law The signifi cance of these statistics is advocate/November_2006_150dpi. in litigation, and the increasing role and for the future of animal protection. Committee, and his presentation included frankness and conviction, has prompted pdf recognised at the highest levels: the some children to write to him of their opportunities for lawyers in the area of cases and insights into legal issues Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics is 7. Oxford conference. animal protection. Legal valuation of an animal involved in prosecuting or defending own past abusive behaviour and their and veterinary practice holding an international conference intent to change. Teachers have praised http://www.oxfordanimalethics. veterinarians who were the subject of a in September to bring together the the presentation and asked for more com/index.php Global legislative model of While the black letter law may vary veterinary malpractice enquiry. most signifi cant research and thinking between jurisdictions, the legal issues involvement in the programme. 8. De Rosa, Bill. Kindness and animal welfare based on ‘best The issues addressed by the speakers around the animal/human violence link, are usually very similar. A number of compassion: convincing the boys. practice’ were as applicable to New Zealand attracting papers worldwide.7 On the strength of the One of the speakers addressed the issue of the level http://www.nahee.org/research_ Speaking at the conference, animal law veterinarians as they were to any other Family programme, TVNZ has awarded of compensation in the event an animal is evaluation/PDF/Kindness%20and%2 specialist Dr Ian Robertson explained vet from around the world. Practical Choosing to be kind: the SPCA with a three-year airtime injured or dies. 0Compasion%20Convincing%20the perspectives were provided on issues infl uencing boys sponsorship worth $1.8 million. that animal law considers the legal issues This will provide a platform for an %20Boys.pdf in all human interactions with animals, The law currently classifi es animals such as informed consent, veterinary Values and behaviours are established at extensive public education campaign to taking into account the unique nature as personal property. In the event of records, confi dentiality, judicial review, an early age. While behaviours within complement the school presentations. Further reading: of animals while considering the human damages to a pet resulting in costs of and the practice by some vets of holding families are largely beyond our control Television commercials have been fi lmed References to animal abuse/human relationship with them. treatment or even a pet’s death, then the on to pets (or pets ashes in the event – children will see or be subjected to law’s usual starting point is to compensate of cremation) until owners settled and Norm Hewitt will become the face violence links: In view of animal welfare developments violence or kindness to animals or the owner based only upon the ‘fair outstanding accounts. of the SPCA, animal welfare and the http://www.animaltherapy. such as the proposed United Nations themselves – the understanding and market value’ of the animal as property. message of non-violence. net/Bibliography-Link. Declaration on Animal Welfare, the latest evaluation of that experience can happen The owner of a pet that has special uses Animal activists and terrorist html#anchor1396304 animal welfare initiatives of the European in a learning environment, allowing or services (e.g., breeding), or if the Commitment Union, and enactment of updated animal laws children to choose to copy or reject those Research on humane education: animal is specially trained, could argue for Norm Hewitt believes the One of the welfare legislation by a number of states, The defi nition of an ‘animal activist’ may values and/or behaviours. http://www.nahee.org/research_ higher compensation on the basis of lost Family programme will help break the Ian suggested it was timely to develop a vary and their activities can fall on either evaluation/PDF/The%20Jeff erson%2 potential earnings. In general, there is no At age 10 to 12, children are in a position cycle of family violence and has pledged global model of animal welfare based on side of the law. England, for example, 0County%20Study.pdf compensation for emotional damages. of some control in most households. his long-term support for the campaign. ‘best practice’. has enacted laws to address the illegal ASPCA on humane education: They are encouraged to have opinions Like the Dalai Lama, he advocates Given the key role of veterinarians in activities of animal activists (The Serious http://www.aspca.org/site/ He compared defi nitions, standards, on issues as diverse as recycling, diet and that teaching children kindness and animal welfare and health care, they Organised Crime and Police Act 2005). PageServer?pagename=edu_history procedures and content of equivalent climate change. They are at a perfect age compassion will lead to a kinder society. are increasingly the focus of consumer continued on page 24

22 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 23 INTERFACE continued from page 23 The United States recently enacted the Animal Fifth New Zealand Biosecurity Summit Enterprise Terrorism Act, which authorises the Department of Justice to apprehend, prosecute, and convict individuals committing animal New Zealand and Biosecurity and trade: enterprise terror. Working together at the border The US law states that is an off ence if an animal law individual ‘interferes’ with the operations of an 24–25 October 2007, Ellerslie Event Centre, Auckland animal enterprise. There are legal concerns that There can be far more to animal law than animal rights and dog the defi nition of ‘interfere’ is vague and may Biosecurity and trade: Working together at the border is the theme for the Fifth restrict activists’ freedom of speech, and raises bites. While legal issues surrounding animals have traditionally New Zealand Biosecurity Summit which is to be held in Auckland on 24–25 questions about what constitutes legal or illegal been dealt with in various ways, the emerging discipline October 2007. Underlying the theme, the conference will focus on: activity. Similarly, given that the penalties vary according to the extent of economic damages, of animal law brings these issues together – and wherever • monitoring of slippage at the border there are legal concerns with the defi nition and • collaboration breadth of the term ‘economic damages’. animals occur there may be a legal issue for animal lawyers. • science and technology Agriculture, exports, research, medicine, wildlife, endangered In view of confl icting perspectives of the uses • off shore measures of animals, activists, industry and the legal species, zoonoses, animals used in entertainment or sports, and • sea containers profession should be interested in the approach of English and American legislators, whereby animals as pets are just some of the areas which can involve • global trends. certain activities of animal activists may be Since 2003, Biosecurity New Zealand has convened an annual Biosecurity classifi ed as terrorism. animal law. Summit for all biosecurity stakeholders. These include about 250 representatives from central, regional and local government, importers and exporters, industry, Animal law in practice Dr Ian Robertson says animal law still seems widely tertiary institutions, the science community, community groups, pest management companies and more. The conference illustrated the diversity of misunderstood, and that negative perceptions can be a barrier approaches to issues involving animals. The summit presents an ideal opportunity for those involved in biosecurity Professor Song Wei, an animal law professor to the discipline being taken seriously by mainstream lawyers to meet, discuss issues, raise concerns, share information on the latest in new from the University of Science and Technology and academics. incursions and prepare for the future. of China, spoke about the recent occurrences It is also an appropriate forum for the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to in China where the Government organised “Animal law cannot be viewed as a serious legal discipline if report on its activities, on the state of the biosecurity system and on progress along ‘dog-killing teams’ in response to the deaths of the pathway mapped out in the 2003 New Zealand Biosecurity Strategy. three people from rabies. More than 55,000 its proponents come across as animal rights extremists who dogs were killed throughout Mouding County in For more information on the 2007 Biosecurity Summit: China. The dogs were hung, electrocuted, beaten are refl exively anti-government, view animal welfare and www.biosecurity.govt.nz/bio-strategy/summit.htm to death, or ‘humanely’ euthanised. Reportedly, protection progress as simply a conspirators’ swindle, or are dog owners were off ered fi ve yan (about 65 UPDATES cents) for killing their own animals. Concerns cynical about approaches other than their own. for public health prompted the establishment Amended import health standard New fees and charges of further dog-killing teams in other Chinese “There is a need for education, but it needs to be objective Sand, rock, gravel, sand, clay, peat and water from any country Funding review of live animal and germplasm exports, plant and counties. (BMG-STD-SOWTR) forestry exports and technical service providers and credible, presenting a balanced view of the many opinions Other speakers illustrated the involvement of The standard has been amended to include two peat products MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) has recently NGOs and businesses which are incorporating and stakeholders involved in issues of animal law, both manufactured by Fertil, France. The amended standard is dated completed a funding review of its services and cost-recovery animal welfare standards into their terms of 30 May 2007. mechanisms for live animal and germplasm exports, plant and forestry product exports, and technical service providers. The practice. For example, Marks and Spencers, domestically and internationally.” www.biosecurity.govt.nz/imports/non-organic/standards/bmg-std- sowtr.htm primary purpose of the proposals was to develop simpler and one of the largest retail stores in the United more effi cient cost-recovery mechanisms for MAFBNZ’s exports Hon Jim Anderton, Minister of Agriculture, has noted that Kingdom, considers animal welfare standards in New import health standard work, to be put in place for at least the next three years. its purchases. It now only off ers free-range eggs, despite New Zealand’s dependence on agriculture, and despite The new fees and charges are eff ective from 1 July 2007. both in shell and as an ingredient. McDonald’s Importation into New Zealand of processed animal feeds of in the United Kingdom has changed egg that legal issues involving animals aff ect important areas plant origin (BNZ-PAFP-IMPRT) Cost recovery for live animal and germplasm exports Cost recovery for services related to the export of live animals suppliers to those that provide only free-range This standard provides for the importation of heated/cooked and germplasm is governed by the Animal Products Act 1999. such as trade, genetic modifi cation, patents, medicine and feeds of plant origin for stock feed and for pet food from all eggs, and recently won an RSPCA award for The new fees and charges are listed in the Animal Products countries. It amalgamates the existing standard, PIT-MEAL- its commitment to improving animal welfare. (Fees, Charges, and Levies) Regulations 2007 and are available at: much more, only two law schools – Canterbury and Auckland IMPRT Importation of oil seed meals for animal feeds into New Similarly, the World Bank has listed animal Zealand with other feed products. www.biosecurity.govt.nz/commercial-exports/animal-exports/fees welfare standards in its list of criteria for lending – currently off er courses in animal law. Minor changes have been made to the standard since MAFBNZ has developed a decision tree to illustrate how on certain ventures. consultation. A copy of the background notes and analysis of market access work will be charged. This is also available at It has been said that animal law today is where environmental www.animal-law.biz submissions are available on request. the above website. This standard is dated 30 May 2007 and replaces PIT-MEAL- Dr Ian Robertson LLB, MRCVS, BVSc is a qualifi ed law was 15 to 20 years ago, and it may be just a matter of time IMPRT Importation of oil seed meals for animal feed into New Cost recovery for plant and forestry product exports and veterinarian and barrister specialising in the area of technical service providers Zealand (24 November 2004). animals and the law. He has taught animal law at the before it becomes more mainstream. Indeed, there is evidence University of Canterbury Law School in New Zealand, www.biosecurity.govt.nz/imports/plants/standards/bnz-pafp-imprt For exporters of plant and forest products and for technical and at the University of Leeds Law School in England, service providers, the new fee structure is available at: that this process may be faster than it was for environmental Plant Imports, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, PO Box 2526, and is scheduled to teach the subject as part of the www.biosecurity.govt.nz/commercial-exports/plant-exports/fees Wellington, phone 04 894 0832, fax 04 894 0662, Massey University Veterinary School Masters course in law, with animal law appearing in the teaching programmes of [email protected] and 2008. an expanding number of academic institutions. www.biosecurity.govt.nz/commercial-transport-and-border- management/facilities/treatment-and-treatment-providers

24 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 25 UPDATES DIRECTORY

MAFBNZ intends to consult with industry representative groups Codes of ethical conduct – approvals, Pest watch: 05/05/2007 – 15/06/2007 at least annually to set the actual fees and charges within these notifi cations and revocations since the Biosecurity is about managing risks – protecting the New Zealand environment and economy from exotic pests and diseases. MAF Biosecurity New proposed charging mechanisms, in order to provide for changing Zealand devotes much of its time to ensuring that new organism records come to its attention, to follow up as appropriate. The tables below list new budgets and work schedules. last issue of Biosecurity organisms that have become established, new hosts for existing pests and extension to distribution for existing pests. The information was collated All organisations involved in the use of live animals for research, during 05/05/2007 – 15/06/2007 and held in the Plant Pest Information Network (PPIN) database. Wherever possible, common names have been Draft import risk analyses and import testing or teaching are required to adhere to an approved code of included. ethical conduct. health standards ANIMAL KINGDOM RECORDS 05/05/2007 – 15/06/2007

Wollemi pine (Wollemia nobilis) Codes of ethical conduct approved: Validated new to New Zealand reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment The draft import risk analysis for Wollemi pine nursery stock from • PharmVet Solutions (code expiry 3 July 2012) Australia (see Biosecurity 71:10) is now out for public consultation. Armascirus sp. nr. Protea cynaroides Northland IDC (general surveillance) Two female mites collected. Transfers of code of ethical conductNil approved: All submissions must be received by MAF Biosecurity New Zealand virginiensis (mite: (giant protea, king protea) (MAFBNZ) no later than 31 August 2007. Cunaxid mite) Code holder name changes:Nil MAFBNZ has evaluated the nature and possible eff ect on people, New host reports the New Zealand environment, and the New Zealand economy Amendments to codes of ethical conductNil approved: Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment of any organisms that may be associated with Wollemia nobilis No new host records during this period. Notifi cations to MAF of minor amendments to codes of ethical nursery stock imported from Australia. The recommended Extension to distribution reports management options contained in the risk analysis take account of conduct:Nil Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment existing industry practices and systems established in Australia and New Zealand to manage biosecurity risks associated with nursery Notifi cations to MAF of arrangements to use an existing code of No new extension to distribution records during this period. stock material in international trade. Therefore, while around 25 ethical conduct:Nil Katarina Kontopos, Team Support Offi cer, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, ph 04 894 0281, [email protected] separate biosecurity measures are recommended for Wollemi pine Codes of ethical conduct revoked or expired or arrangements nursery stock imported from Australia, it is likely that many of these PLANT KINGDOM RECORDS 05/05/2007 – 15/06/2007 can be easily incorporated into existing industry practices and terminated or lapsed: Validated new to New Zealand reports should be seen as enhancements to the current biosecurity system. • Johnson & Johnson (New Zealand) Ltd Organism Host Location Submitted by Lychee (Litchi chinensis) fruit from Taiwan Approvals by the Director-General of MAF for the use of non-human Ampelovirus? grapevine leafroll associated Vitis vinifera cv. Cabernet Sauvignon Gisborne Linnaeus Laboratory A draft import risk analysis and draft import health standard for hominids:Nil virus type 9 (GLRaV-9) SA 125 lychee (Litchi chinensis) fruit from Taiwan has been released for Planococcus citri Cassia fi stula Auckland IDC (general surveillance) Approvals by the Minister of Agriculture of research or testing in the stakeholder consultation. All submissions must be received no later (insect: citrus mealybug) (Indian senna) than 17 September 2007. national interest:Nil Hypurus bertrandi Asparagus asparagoides Auckland IDC (general surveillance) Linda Carsons, Senior Policy Adviser, Animal Welfare, phone 04 894 0370, (insect: Portulaca leaf-miner weevil) (smilax asparagus) Submissions on risk analyses fax 04 894 0747, [email protected] MAFBNZ welcomes submissions from all interested parties on the Phytophthora inundata Pinus radiata Mid Canterbury IDC (general surveillance) risk analyses, particularly comments on the following questions: Codes of welfare – update on (fungus: no common name) (Monterey pine, radiata pine) 1. What are your views on the risk assessment for each hazard development, issue and consultation Signifi cant fi nd reports group or organism? Are the risk assessments accurate? What changes, if any, are required? Please provide evidence to support since the last issue of Biosecurity Organism Host Location Submitted by your submission. No new signifi cant fi nd reports this period. Codes of welfare issued 2007: 2. Has the effi cacy of risk management measures for each hazard • Deer New host reports group or organism been evaluated accurately? • Companion cats Organism Host Location Submitted by 3. Are there alternative measures or packages of measures that Phytophthora megasperma Ulmus sp. North Canterbury IDC (general surveillance) will achieve the risk management objective? Please provide Consultation on codes of welfare: (fungus: Phytophthora root rot) (elm) details. • Commercial slaughter: being fi nalised by NAWAC Botryotinia fuckeliana (fungus: botrytis blight) Submissions: essential information • Dairy cattle: submissions being reviewed by NAWAC Alfamovirus alfalfa mosaic virus Eruca vesicaria ssp. sativa Mid Canterbury IDC (general surveillance) Please include the following information in written submissions: • Dogs: public consultation anticipated third quarter 2007 (AMV) (rocket) • title of the risk analysis or import health standard Codes of welfare under development: Cucumovirus cucumber mosaic virus • the number(s) of the sections commented on (CMV) • Transport in New Zealand • submitter details: Crocidosema plebejana Prunus armeniaca Central Otago IDC (general surveillance) • Sheep and beef cattle – name and title (insect: common tipworm) (apricot) • Temporary housing (including boarding establishments) Botryosphaeria dothidea Pseudopanax simplex (haumakoroa, Auckland IDC (general surveillance) – organisation (if applicable) Cheryl O’Connor, Programme Manager Animal Welfare, (fungus: Botryosphaeria rot) kaiwhiria) – address and contact details (e.g., phone, fax, and email) phone 04 894 0371, fax 04 894 0747, cheryl.o’[email protected] Oidium sp. Lamium amplexicaule Auckland IDC (general surveillance) For draft risk analyses: (fungus: powdery mildew) (henbit) www.biosecurity.govt.nz/strategy-and-consultation/ NAWAC annual report available Verticillium dahliae Tagetes minuta Auckland IDC (general surveillance) consultation/risk-analysis The 2006 annual report of the National Animal Welfare Advisory (fungus: Verticillium wilt) (Mexican marigold) For draft import health standard: Committee (NAWAC) was published recently. Verticillium tricorpus Lupinus polyphyllus Auckland IDC (general surveillance) (fungus: Verticillium wilt) (Russell lupin) www.biosecurity.govt.nz/strategy-and-consultation/consultation/ihs If you would like a copy of the report go to: Rhizoctonia solani Libertia peregrinans Bay of Plenty IDC (general surveillance) www.biosecurity.govt.nz/ Please send written submissions on draft risk analyses to: (fungus: Rhizoctonia damping-off ) (New Zealand Iris) animal-welfare/nawac/annual-report/nawac-ar-06.pdf Martin Van Ginkel, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, PO Box 2526, Botryosphaeria parva Schinus terebinthifolius (Brazilian Auckland IDC (general surveillance) Wellington, New Zealand, fax 04 894 0733, or contact: (fungus: Botryosphaeria rot) pepper tree) [email protected]. Kirsty Grant, Executive Coordinator Animal Welfare, phone 04 894 0366, Pythium diclinum Beta vulgaris Mid Canterbury IDC (general surveillance) Please send written submissions on draft import health standards to: fax 04 894 0747, [email protected] (fungus: damping-off ) (silverbeet, red beet) Vivian Dalley, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, PO Box 2526, Wellington, Aenetus virescens Raukaua simplex var. sinclairii Auckland IDC (general surveillance) New Zealand, fax 04 894 0733, [email protected] (insect: puriri moth) (no common name) Extension to distribution reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Glycaspis granulata Eucalyptus botryoides Wairarapa Ensis (high risk site survey) (insect: Australian lerp psyllid) (southern mahogany) Jennifer Walker, Technical Support Offi cer, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, phone 04 894 0752, [email protected]

26 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | ISSUE 77 ISSUE 77 | MAF BIOSECURITY NEW ZEALAND | 27 Exotic disease and pest emergency hotline: 0800 809 966 Animal welfare complaint hotline: 0800 327 027 www.biosecurity.govt.nz