Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 A publication of MAF Biosecurity Authority

Welfare of sheep in live shipments debated: p7 Also in this issue Developing a risk management framework Bagpipes, BSE and bullets Wireworm in New Zealand ostriches

Pacific ant prevention plan security Mathematical modelling to predict pest spread Surveillance for forestry pests Container checks prove their worth Blueberry rust blows in GMO testing methods How to contact us: Everyone listed at the end of an article as a contact point, unless otherwise indicated, is part of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Contents Biosecurity Authority. All MAF staff can be contacted by email. The standard format for all addresses is [email protected] For example Michelle Threadgold would be 3 Biosecurity strategy sees accountabilities redefined [email protected] 4 An integrated risk management framework PO Box 2526, Wellington New Zealand 5 MAF plant health specialist seconded to lead international body Budget boost for biosecurity defences (+64) 4 474 4100 (switchboard) most staff have direct dial lines which 6 Funding review looks at cost recovery are listed where available International speakers for Biosecurity Institute seminar (+64) 4 474 4133 7 Challenging ethical issues at Australian veterinary conference • Animal Biosecurity Group 8 From Massey to bagpipes, BSE and to bullets in the Balkans (+64) 4 470 2730 9 Animal welfare law conference promotes effectiveness of NZ legislation • Biosecurity Coordination Group Biosecurity People: Animal Biosecurity – Tim Das – Policy Team – Indigenous Flora & Fauna Team 10 Bird flu at Cambodian wildlife rescue centre – Contracts Management Team New Zealand helps combat international animal disease outbreaks – International Team 11 New internal parasite found in ostriches (+64) 9 368 5148 12 Ants recognised as Pacific’s most serious pest threat • Director Border Management • Border Management Group, 13 Biosecurity flavour to Entomological Society gathering Auckland Ant surveillance picks up incursions (+64) 4 474 2738 14 Trans-Tasman relationship strengthened • Border Management Group, 15 Model age spread: using mathematics to plot tests Wellington 16 North American conference highlights significant forestry pests (+64) 4 498 9888 Gypsy moth and fall webworm responses – No news is good news • Group Director and Director, Business Support, Biosecurity 17 Surveillance for two serious forestry pests refined Authority 18 Increased scrutiny paying dividends • Director, Animal Biosecurity Training for accredited persons • Director, Plants Biosecurity 19 Wildlife at the borderline • Director, Forest Biosecurity • Director, Biosecurity Coordination Consultation on changes to import requirements for plants • Animal Welfare Group 20 Plant protection conference in The Netherlands (+64) 4 474 4257 21 GMO testing methods focus of international seminar • Plants Biosecurity Group Biosecurity interests considered at international civil aviation conference (+64) 4 470 2741 22 New blueberry pest blows in • Forest Biosecurity Group ASB Bank House, 101 The Terrace, Wellington 22 New and amended import health standards issued – Animals Biosecurity is published 6-weekly by MAF 24 Codes of ethical conduct – approvals, notifications and revocations since the Biosecurity Authority. It covers biosecurity last issue of Biosecurity and animal health, animal welfare, plant Draft import health standards for consultation – Plants health and forest health issues. It is of special Entry conditions for Actinidia nursery stock and seed for sowing interest to all those with a stake in New Zealand’s agriculture, horticulture, forestry, Changes to import health permit requirements for the importation of grains animal welfare and environment. and seeds for processing and consumption Enquiries about specific articles: Refer to contact listed at the end of the relevant article. General enquiries (eg, circulation requests or 25 New organism records: 29/03/04 – 14/05/04 information about MAF's biosecurity work): Biosecurity Magazine MAF Biosecurity Authority PO Box 2526, Wellington Cover: The welfare of sheep in feedlots was one of the ethical issues debated at the Phone: 04 474 4100 Australian Veterinary Association conference. Story p7. Fax: 04 498 9888 Email: [email protected] Editorial enquiries: Editor: Phil Stewart Phone: 04 384 4688 Email: [email protected] ISSN 1174 – 4618 www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity Biosecurity strategy sees accountabilities redefined By Larry Fergusson Deputy Director General MAF has been

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry “ A part of creating the biosecurity engaged in the system envisaged by the Biosecurity biosecurity business for “ Strategy is to define what biosecurity much of its existence is and is not. In other words: where are the boundaries between the system and other accountabilities and what fragmentation of accountability, biodiversity and ecosystems outside the are the interlinkages? resulting in gaps, overlaps and conservation estate. inconsistencies. The Government’s The Ministry of Health is concerned MAF has been engaged in the response was a decision that MAF would about the potential for new organisms biosecurity business for much of its be the accountable agency. In making to act as sources of, or vectors for, existence. Originally, MAF was focused those decisions however, the diseases affecting humans. For example, on protecting New Zealand’s developing Government agreed that MAF would health authorities have a long history of agricultural, pastoral and horticultural not take responsibility for the pest involvement in port sanitation and the industries from the threat of pests and management functions of agencies such potential for vermin to transmit new diseases that would damage production as DoC, and that MAF would not diseases to New Zealanders. More or inhibit our ability to sell our products become accountable until it had recently, there has been a concern about to other countries. From early days there developed the appropriate capabilities. the impact of new organisms on human was also a concern for broader issues In the marine context, the boundaries wellbeing (for example, aggressive such as the ban on the importation on between biosecurity and fisheries biting insects). snakes and spiders. Eventually the management are relatively clear. legislation was amended to include While MAF will take accountability for However, this is an area where there are broader environmental concerns. the contribution that the biosecurity currently plenty of moving parts. systems can make to all the objectives In the early 1990s, a plethora of Government has embarked on an oceans above, it does not take accountability for legislation was replaced by two Acts: the policy review looking at the agencies the objectives themselves. Hazardous Substances and New and legislation that manage the marine Organisms Act and the Biosecurity Act. environment. The foreshore and seabed Among the suggestions that came out of legislation is currently before the Biosecurity Strategy process was the The latter Act enabled other parliament, aquaculture is being establishment of a chief executives’ departments, regional government and reviewed and the Government has made forum, comprising the four government sector groups to take action to protect commitments concerning the agencies referred to earlier. This body their areas of interest from biosecurity development of marine reserves. Marine will clarify the interlinkages and threats. Hence we have seen the biosecurity is relevant to all of these interactions between the objectives of all development of essentially private pest issues, and the agencies involved extend the agencies and set the objectives for management strategies (e.g. the Bovine beyond the Ministry of Fisheries. the biosecurity system. It will be the Tb Pest Management Strategy under the forum in which the chief executives auspices of the Animal Health Board), The Department of Conservation has agree how they will work together to regional pest management strategies and long been involved in the management achieve their combined objectives. the involvement of other government of pests and diseases to protect the agencies in biosecurity. conservation estate. In order to do that, Another significant element in the it has also had an interest in what picture of joint contributions is the role There are currently four central others, regional councils in particular, of regional councils. A regional/central government agencies with a biosecurity do to manage pests that might threaten government chief executives’ forum has interest: MAF, the Ministry of Fisheries the conservation estate. DoC also also been established. There is already concerned with marine biosecurity, DoC administers other legislation that very significant collaboration between with protecting our indigenous provides for the management of pests these two elements of government and biosecurity, and the Ministry of Health (e.g. the Wild Animal Control Act). this body will serve to enhance and with threats to human health. There are other initiatives which build on that foundation. One of concerns articulated in the DoC takes to manage pests on a www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity- Biosecurity Strategy was the national basis to protect indigenous strategy/strategy-index.htm

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 3 An integrated risk management framework Among the projects of the Biosecurity Limited resources is the fundamental The prioritisation framework also Strategy Implementation Team constraint. While this may be eased by included basic tools for applying (Biosecurity 49:1, 1 February 2004) seeking additional funding, we also these criteria. is developing a basic “integrated risk have to prioritise to make most IRFM project management framework” – a effective and efficient use of available The Biosecurity Strategy mechanism to guide resource resources. To be sure we are allocating Implementation Team project to allocation in managing risks across resources to our highest priorities, we develop an integrated risk management need to be able to assess and compare the biosecurity system. framework (IRMF) for biosecurity alternative uses of resources. This builds on this earlier work to guide Weaknesses highlighted requires common criteria and methods resource allocation in managing risks. Decision-making in biosecurity is in assessing priority. characterised by complexity and An “integrated” approach involves With the release of the Biosecurity uncertainty. The main failings have identifying risks and assessing and Strategy, the Minister for Biosecurity been inconsistencies and deficiencies in prioritising the allocation of resources agreed the following prioritisation the methods and processes used by to their management from a whole- criteria: biosecurity agencies to assess and of-system perspective. It raises prioritise their use of resources. • technical – feasibility, suitability prioritisation from within groups and and probability of success Reviews of New Zealand’s biosecurity sectors to across the biosecurity system. • practicality – logistics, resourcing, programme have highlighted the Current work on developing this timing, opportunities, risks, past absence of a framework for prioritising IRMF combines: achievements and stability resource allocation across the • further developing and testing the biosecurity continuum (pre-border to • benefit-cost – encompassing the full prioritisation framework pest management) and sectors range of effects across all sectors • improvements to assessment of (conservation, agriculture and forestry, • strategic – contribution to goals biosecurity risks and options for marine and human health). and key priorities, long-term their management benefits, synergy and coverage These weaknesses have undermined • developing a tool to identify risks confidence that decisions on resource • acceptability – stakeholder concern, across the biosecurity system. allocation are robust and consistent, needs of Maori, international The first task, however, is to define accurately reflect relative priorities and interests, distributional the overall framework within which achieve best use of available resources considerations and risk preferences. to set these three decision-support with an appropriate balance across the In these criteria, the assessment of components: identification, assessment biosecurity system. benefit-cost should encompass the full and prioritisation. To improve resource allocation, the range of effects across all sectors: This project has also provided input Biosecurity Strategy for New Zealand • commercial, including primary into the Strategic Unit’s organisational called for “an integrated framework for production, industry and service design projects, looking at the structure establishing whole-of-system priorities sectors needed to support an integrated and providing greater transparency and approach to assessing and prioritising accountability in risk management”. • environmental, including indigenous and valued introduced resource allocation in biosecurity risk Prioritisation framework species, biological systems and management. Greater consistency in This call was answered by the biodiversity decision-making and processes such as interagency Biosecurity Working import health standard development • social, including personal property Group, which developed the and incursion response is also being and lifestyle Government response to the progressed. • human health and well-being Biosecurity Strategy in the first half of Johannah Branson, 2003, in designing a framework for • Maori cultural and spiritual values Biosecurity Strategy prioritising central government • public, in terms of Crown Implementation Team, biosecurity activities. resources. phone 04 471 6713, [email protected]

4 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 MAF plant health specialist seconded to lead international body MAF plant health specialist, Dr John John has worked in the Plants MAF Director- Hedley has been made a Principal Group of the former MAF General Murray Regulatory Authority and more Sherwin (left) Adviser in recognition of his unique making a contribution to international recently in MAF Biosecurity’s presentation to International Team when it was John Hedley phytosanitary issues. He has been (right) in seconded to Rome for three months as formed in 1999. He has been recognition of his closely involved in the activities of international Coordinator of the International Plant contribution. Protection Convention (IPPC). the Asia and Pacific Plant Protection Commission, as Chair created by the SPS Agreement, to turn it The position recently became vacant, of the Standing Committee on Plant into a fully functional reality. but the FAO has had trouble finding a Quarantine for most of the period Robert Griffin, former coordinator of replacement. John has been employed in since 1987, and with the Pacific the IPPC Secretariat, and John’s this position in the past and Plant Protection Commission since successor in that position, believes that consequently he was called upon to its inception. it is “through the vision, persistence, return until a suitable person is Among his achievements, John has been hard work and sacrifice of John that the recruited to fill the position fulltime. credited by the World Trade IPPC has come anywhere near fulfilling John has worked for MAF since 1968 Organisation Sanitary Phytosanitary the role envisioned for it by countries in and has contributed to the International (SPS) Secretariat with stepping in when the SPS Agreement”.John is expected to Phytosanitary sector for over two the idea of an international return to New Zealand in late July. decades. Since he last worked as phytosanitary standard-setting body was www.ippc.int Coordinator of the IPPC Secretariat, not much more than an expectation Budget boost for biosecurity defences

Last month’s Budget has allocated • Another $1 million a year to the • increased surveillance in ports and $46.5 million in new funding over four Protect New Zealand programme. marinas for high-impact exotic years to strengthen New Zealand’s • Another $7.8 million over four years species defences against exotic weeds, pests, for monitoring to ensure decisions • increased resources to assess threats and diseases, says Biosecurity on border management remain to the marine environment Minister Jim Sutton. consistent and cost effective. • increased research to assist in • $404,000 this financial year and managing the main sources of risk to He says baseline funding is the best $405,000 in out years to fund a foot the marine environment (ballast measure of government commitment to and mouth disease vaccine bank. water and fouling on vessel hulls). biosecurity, as total funding in any year includes money for one-off incursion • $400,000 to ensure conservation Mr Sutton says the government’s responses. biosecurity is maintained. commitment to biosecurity is Associate Biosecurity Minister Marian indisputable. “Baseline funding for 2004-05 – Hobbs says the national saltmarsh operating only – increases from $154 “In 2001, we introduced a $200 instant mosquito surveillance programme will million this financial year to almost fine for biosecurity breaches found at receive additional operating funding of $165 million next financial year. This airports; something previous $1.6 million in this financial year represents a 7.4 percent increase over the governments had been too scared to do. followed by at least another $6.3 million previous year and a 57.5 percent over the next four years. We put in the extra money for soft- increase since the Labour-led tissue x-ray machines and detector dog government took office,” Mr Sutton said. “We have done well on battling the teams to make sure screening of air The $46.5 million budget allocation southern saltmarsh mosquito. This passengers and crews was 100 percent. includes: funding increase will assist us to detect We ensured that all sea containers new incursions of exotic species as soon • $19.5 million over four years to were screened. as possible, making the chances of improve marine biosecurity: eradication more likely.” “All this has been done while still $4 million next financial year enabling trade and tourism to flow at rising to around $5.2 million in She says the extra funding for marine ever-increasing rates.” subsequent years. biosecurity will provide

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 5 Funding review looks at cost recovery

This year MAF will examine its Sources of the estimated $304 million in government making about biosecurity services. It is funding and cost recovery biosecurity spending in 2003/04 expected that there will continue to be Industry or third party funders arrangements for biosecurity services $61 million an ongoing need for considerable levels – one of the expectations from the 20% of tax payer funding. Biosecurity Strategy. The Working Group that developed The Biosecurity Funding Review is being the Government’s response to the Ratepayers run jointly by the Biosecurity Strategy $26 million Biosecurity Strategy estimated 9% Taxpayers government biosecurity spending in Implementation Team and the MAF $217 million Policy unit, and involves reviewing 71% 2003/04 at $304 million existing funding arrangements for all (see graph for breakdown). • Funding arrangements must be biosecurity services delivered by the four consistent with New Zealand’s Consultation should begin in the next core biosecurity agencies: MAF, the international obligations few months. Changes in funding flowing Ministries of Fisheries and Health, and resulting from the review are not • The full costs of inspecting, treating, the Department of Conservation. expected to be in place before the responding to interceptions and 2005/06 financial year. The project involves assessing existing clearing goods at the border should funding arrangements against a set of in most cases be recovered through a The team will ensure that any changes funding principles that were approved clearance charge on importers to cost recovery arrangements needed by Cabinet as part of the government’s • The practicality and desirability of before the review are complete and response to the Strategy in July 2003. recouping the costs associated with consistent with the review’s work. The objective is to establish funding clearing passengers at the border MAF is also involved in the Passenger arrangements that: should be investigated further (this is Cost Recovery project, which is • assist in efficiently minimising not part of the Biosecurity Funding currently being consulted on with biosecurity risks Review – see more below) industry. This consultation focuses solely on passenger clearance services. • minimise the costs of compliance • There should be an increase in the and administration use of levies under the Biosecurity For further information about the Act for funding surveillance, • help to keep to costs of the supply of Biosecurity Strategy: Funding and incursion response and pest service low Cost Recovery: management services, but that a www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity- • are fair considerable portion of tax funding strategy/funding.htm • are consistent with New Zealand’s remain; and Hayden Glass, international obligations; and • The full cost of an accreditation Project Leader, • cover the full costs of the services services should be met through user Biosecurity Funding Review, provided (i.e. that avoid cross- charges placed on the individuals or phone 04 471 5527, subsidy between services). agencies seeking accreditation. [email protected]

As part of the response to the Strategy, The review is likely to lead to some Chris Baddeley. Cabinet considered the funding increase in the use of both user charges Team Leader, arrangements for some types of and levies to fund biosecurity services, Biosecurity Policy, biosecurity services and has instructed and also an increased focus on how best phone, 04 474 4266 biosecurity agencies that: to involve those paying in decision- [email protected] International speakers for Biosecurity Institute seminar Mr Tetsuro Uesugi, Biodiversity Coordinator and Acting Director chair of the IUCN (World Conservation Union) Invasive Species of Policy and Invasive Species at Japan’s Ministry for the Specialist Group, and Sarah Russell (Australian Quarantine Environment, will be one of the guest speakers at the New Inspection Services). Zealand Biosecurity Institute’s national education and training The programme for NETS2004 covers all aspects of biosecurity, seminar (NETS) being held in Rotorua from 21-23 July, 2004. with speakers from government departments, regional councils, Mr Uesugi will be outlining new measures being introduced in research institutes, private biosecurity providers, universities Japan at a national level to address the problem of invasive and community groups. The three day seminar provides an species. Other international speakers include Australia’s Dr opportunity for all those working in the field of biosecurity to Mark Lonsdale (Chairman of the Global Invasive Species network and share experiences and ideas. Programme), Auckland University’s Dr Mick Clout, founding For registration forms and programme: www.biosecurity.org.nz

6 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Challenging ethical issues at Australian veterinary conference The New Zealand Veterinary requiring a preloading inspection by the Criminal profile Association’s animal welfare destination country and ensuring that John Clark, of the New South Wales coordinator, Dr Virginia Williams, even rejected animals can be off-loaded, Police, emphasised the value of attended last month’s Australian to avoid difficulties of finding and information on animal abuse to the Veterinary Association (AVA) loading food for them at sea. police. His research has shown that Conference in Canberra. Here, she Clive Phillips, Professor of Animal certain types of animal cruelty can reports on items of interest to New Welfare at Queensland University, indicate other, specific criminal Zealand from an animal welfare commented on the need to develop behaviour. Any information available to perspective, including live sheep objective, effective measures of welfare police on suspected or actual animal exports and the link between animal for transported sheep which, up to this abuse can be helpful in adding to the and human abuse. point, have been quantified simply in profile of potential suspects. Cormo Express incident terms of mortality rate. Reporting abuse Australian Veterinarians for Animal Human and animal abuse links The reporting of animal abuse by Welfare and Ethics (AVAWE) is a special Another AVAWE session of interest veterinarians was given an international interest branch (SIB) of the AVA. This focused on the role of veterinarians in perspective by Canadian veterinarian year, AVAWE held a combined session highlighting the links between human Alice Crook, who indicated that this issue had been given priority by the with the Sheep SIB, focusing on the abuse and animal abuse. Psychologist Canadian Veterinary Medical export of live sheep for slaughter. This Eleanora Gullone presented results of a Association. While reporting is issue has been the subject of fierce Monash University survey of women in encouraged in Canada, it is mandatory debate in Australia since last year’s refuges, which demonstrated significant in some states in the United States. Cormo Express incident, in which a links between family violence and shipment of sheep was rejected by animal abuse. In New Zealand, reporting is an ethical Saudi Arabia. requirement if a veterinarian is not able The survey showed women were to solve an issue through consultation ‘Animals Australia’, represented by remaining in violent relationships and education. Simon Bain, President of Glenys Oogjes, argued that the trade for significantly longer periods in AVAWE, said the AVA does not favour represents an abandonment of order to protect pets threatened by mandatory reporting but there is an Australia’s ethical and legal standards for violent partners. awareness of the need for veterinarians economic gain, and that banning the Alongside this research, veterinarian to be able to report such issues without trade altogether would set “an ethical Peter Green surveyed Australian the fear of litigation; at the moment precedent that would echo internationally”. practitioners on cases of deliberate there is a conflict of interest with their Ethicist Neil Levy agreed, finding the abuse seen in practice, finding an constitution regarding confidentiality. trade ethically unjustifiable unless incidence of 1 in 800 cases. welfare standards in destination First Strike countries are significantly raised. Notwithstanding the survey result, the If veterinarians are to report effectively, failure of veterinarians to recognise however, a network of those involved in Tony Brightling and Nigel Brown, deliberate abuse was identified as an the animal abuse-human abuse interface veterinarians with experience on issue of concern. is needed. Virginia Williams spoke about transport ships and on the ground in the ‘First Strike’ campaign, profiled in the Middle East, indicated that, with Animal hoarding issues 41 and 50 of Biosecurity,to advances in the design of both ships and Mark Lawrie, Chief Veterinarian for the facilitate cooperation between law feedlots in destination countries, welfare New South Wales SPCA, spoke on the enforcement and welfare agencies with of transported sheep has shown phenomenon of animal hoarding, the aim of decreasing violence in society. significant improvement. However, noting that this is not simply an animal Originating in the United States, concerns were acknowledged about welfare problem but one where First Strike was introduced to animal welfare at some feedlots and at psychiatric help is needed for the New Zealand about 18 months ago abattoirs, where slaughter methods do owners. He emphasised the need for through UNITEC, Institute of not conform to Australian standards. veterinarians to recognise the signs Technology in Auckland, with the In relation to the Cormo Express indicative of such clients, as did involvement of other government and incident, Federal Chief Veterinary veterinary behaviourist Kirsty Seksel, community organisations. who explained the behavioural Officer Gardner Murray indicated that Dr Virginia Williams, possibilities being considered for manifestations of animal cruelty Animal Welfare Coordinator, minimising future risks include and abuse. New Zealand Veterinary Association

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 7 From Massey to bagpipes, BSE and bullets in the Balkans By Ian Dacre, harness wounds, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary advanced lameness Studies, University of Edinburgh pathology, advanced respiratory pathology), After four years as a veterinary assistant but also to experience during the height of the bovine first hand numerous spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) scare exotic diseases in Scotland, I could not have found a previously only read country of much greater contrast for my about: piroplasmosis, next post than Morocco. As the newly rabies (canine and appointed Technical Director for the equine) and West Society for the Protection of Animals Nile Fever, to name Abroad (SPANA), I began a six month This well-laden donkey is one of the estimated 300 million draft animals currently utilised for cultivation or haulage around the world. a few personally probationary period that would Photo: Ian Dacre encountered. Equally, continue for over four years and charities such as SPANA likely to conditions such as influenza and started a life-long relationship with increase sufficiently (if at all, in the tetanus in equids, or distemper in working equines. present economic climate) to maintain canines were commonplace compared I had graduated from Massey University their current field operation strengths. to developed countries. with a desire to travel and see the world Many charities have been affected by the These experiences benefit the education in my ‘OE’ years. This was fuelled by a general downturn in the stock market as of not only visiting volunteers, but also documentary that I watched during my well as a gradual dwindling of their Moroccan veterinary students who all studies, on the work carried out by the grass-roots support base. spend two weeks (minimum) working Brooke Hospital for Animals, a British Change of emphasis for in the centres as part of their course’s equine charity in Egypt. Here were animal charities practical requirement. Encountering images of Zebelline donkeys carrying exotic disease first hand is the best out their arduous daily tasks in the Many of these charities have rightly education a veterinarian can experience brickworks of Cairo, and the work turned from traditional ‘first-aid’ to aid in disease detection upon its being done by veterinarians from ‘the refuges to longer-term integrated arrival in a new country. The numbers Brooke’ for the donkeys’ (and their education programmes, where benefits of veterinarians sent from abroad to owners’) welfare. are not so easily demonstrated to patrons on a yearly basis. These may Britain to gain such experience during Animal traction vary from farriery training courses to the 2001 foot and mouth disease demand growing school-visit programmes, post-graduate outbreak is just one example. A 1982 FAO report(1) suggested that the veterinary development by sponsoring Although based in Morocco during demand for animal traction was likely to internships, or small research projects. these four years, I also worked in double in the next 15-20 years. The vast For me, key achievements were Jordan, Tunisia and Mali. However, my majority of farmers in developing improving access to educational visit to Kosovo in July 1999, one week countries work small plots of land. With materials for in-country staff and after the United Nations troop both increasing populations and helping to increase the number of deployment, gave me some of my most marginalisation of impoverished veterinary students and new graduates memorable experiences. My previous farmers in these countries to more who came to work as volunteers in the caseload for gunshot wounds had remote mountainous areas, animal centres. Hospitalising over 2000 equines amounted to one Doberman in Essex traction is likely to be the only viable and treating over 60,000 equine with an air pellet wound to his option for such agriculturalists. outpatients each year, there was never a abdomen. Suddenly I was faced with In 1998 there were 300 million draft shortage of interesting case material. multiple rifle wounds, 5-10 days old, in animals in the world estimated to be Refuges great practical free-roaming cattle. Those survivors saving 20 million tonnes of petroleum experience for vets were lucky still to have had access to per annum, ploughing 50 percent of Animal refuges in developing countries feed and water, unlike many others that cultivated land and hauling 25 million benefit more than the local populations had been locked indoors and perished. drawn vehicles(2). Their economic surrounding them. Visiting veterinarians Since my return to the United Kingdom, importance is not likely to diminish in could expect to gain experience, not I have become a member of SPANA’s our lifetime. only in treating a myriad of typical veterinary council, as well as Neither are the resources of equine working equine conditions (cachexia, participating in courses and conferences

8 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Animal welfare law conference promotes effectiveness of NZ legislation More than 90 people attended New The conference opened with an Special Investigation Group), took Zealand’s first conference on animal introduction to the Act and its place in the afternoon. welfare law, held in Auckland on 13 background by Mark Neeson, Principal Proceedings from the conference will Adviser with MAF Policy’s Biosecurity March 2004. Organisers were be available on the website of the and Science Policy Group, who led the delighted with the interest shown and Animal Rights Legal Advocacy team that drafted the legislation. the feedback they received. Network (ARLAN), which This was followed by a presentation The aim of the conference was to co-hosted the seminar with the by Judge David Harvey, on factors increase effectiveness in investigations UNITEC School of Natural Sciences. relevant to sentencing for animal and enforcement action under the welfare offences, and a series of ARLAN is a national organisation of Animal Welfare Act 1999. The Act is elective workshops on a range of lawyers and law students committed to New Zealand’s principal animal welfare topics including: animal welfare. Among their other legislation. It sets considerably higher activities, they provide legal advice to • preparing a prosecution file and more detailed animal welfare the SPCA and produce a regular standards than its predecessor, the • use of expert evidence (presented newsletter, published on their website Animals Protection Act 1960. It also by Jacqui Pate, Senior Investigating (below). contains a sophisticated range of tools Solicitor, MAF Special Investigation to assist in the protection of animals, Group) UNITEC offers a range of animal health and welfare-related courses and including forfeiture orders and search • making a sentencing submission and seizure orders. The Act is qualifications, and is also the base for • forfeiture orders administered by MAF, and is enforced the New Zealand First Strike campaign by MAF, the Royal New Zealand • search and seizure under the Act. (Biosecurity 50:18). Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to The list of speakers was impressive, and Joanna Tuckwell, Animals (SPCA) and the Police. included Crown prosecutors and law Policy Adviser. lecturers. A stimulating and positive Animal Welfare, MAF helped fund attendance at the phone 04 474 4296, panel discussion, involving Neil Wells conference by SPCA inspectors, and fax 04 498 9888, (Programme Leader, Animal Welfare, viewed this as a valuable opportunity [email protected] UNITEC School of Natural Sciences), to provide ongoing training for the www.arlan.org.nz inspectors, who do a tremendous Jim Boyd (SPCA Inspector, Bay of amount of valuable work in enforcing Islands SPCA) and Earl Culham the Act. (Senior Animal Welfare Adviser, MAF

Continued from page 8 in Albania, Morocco and Syria. More details on SPANA’s work may be found on its website. www.spana.org Animal Biosecurity

Ian Dacre BVSc MRCVS, Tim Das has joined the Animal Import and Export section on Department of Veterinary secondment for six months to replace Sally Aitken while she Clinical Studies, goes on maternity leave. Tim has been with MAF Quarantine Royal (Dick) School of Service for 26 years and is married with three children and Veterinary Studies, one mokopuna. University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom He will be responsible for responding to enquiries regarding the import and export of live animals, as well as the importation of animal (1) Proceedings from Expert Consultation on the products. He will also be the Systems Administrator for the database IMPACT Rational Use of Animal Energy in Africa and in Sally’s absence. Asia (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, 1982). “I look forward to working with a team who shares the same vision of maintaining New Zealand’s clean green image,” Tim says. “I welcome the opportunity to see (2) Proceedings from The Third International what goes on in the technical side of developing an IHS and having an Colloquium for Working Equines (RS opportunity to contribute.” Ramaswamy, Mexico City, Mexico, 1998).

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 9 Bird flu at Cambodian wildlife rescue centre

Dr Dorothy Geale, Programme and Thailand. The poultry Coordinator, Exotic Disease Response, populations of Vietnam Animal Biosecurity recently visited (207,000,000, or 2590 birds/ Cambodia on the invitation of the Food km2) and Thailand and Agriculture Organisation of the (213,500,000 – 1136 birds/km2) United Nations (FAO). In Biosecurity far exceed poultry in 51:8 we reported on Dr Geale’s Cambodia (19,851,000 – 374 2 observations of the impact of highly birds/ km ). Both Thailand and pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or Vietnam slaughtered more birds than the total “bird flu” in that country. In the second Cambodian poultry of this series of two articles, Dorothy Blood sample being taken from cat at the Phnom Tamao bird population. describes the effects of the virus at Wildlife Rescue Centre to test for exposure to the H5N1 virus. Cambodia’s Phnom Tamao Wildlife But the impact of avian exotic birds, 86 died. Formerly a zoo, the Rescue Centre (PTWRC), where 86 of influenza H5N1 extends beyond poultry. site has been taken over by WildAide, an 347 captive birds perished. A peregrine falcon was confirmed with international organisation focused on the disease in Hong Kong, as were crows wildlife preservation and rehabilitation. HPAI appeared in South East Asia in in Japan. The third official confirmation PTWRC is a popular local attraction, January 2004 with a declaration to the of H5N1 in Cambodia was made in the with up to 300,000 visitors a year. Office International des Epizooties Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre Unknown at the time to Cambodian (OIE) of widespread infection by (PTWRC), about 45 km south of Department of Animal Health and Vietnam on 8 January. Within two Phnom Penh. Of a collection of 347 weeks, most of South East Asia Production, the PTWRC detected confirmed H5N1, followed by Indonesia Large-billed crow: mortality in crested serpent eagles on 15 thought to have and mainland China in February. helped spread avian December 2003 – more than a month influenza to birds before the official index case in Phnom Cambodia appears to have been spared in the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre. Penh on 23 January 2004. Precise the devastation experienced by Vietnam records were maintained by PTWRC staff, which allows insights into the New Zealand helps combat international outbreak in Cambodia and transmission animal disease outbreaks within the centre itself. In the first three days, the disease erupted in raptors New Zealand’s commitment to international animal health including grey headed fish eagle, crested assistance in cases such as the bird flu outbreak in South serpent eagle, white rumped vulture, East Asia has been strengthened, with the signing on 24 spotted wood owls, brown fish owl, spot May of an updated international agreement with Ireland, bellied eagle owl and buffy fish owls. Canada, United States, Australia and the UK. Raptors are fed chicken obtained from The agreement enables these countries to combine their efforts by supplying the Kandal market in central Phnom experts including veterinarians, laboratory diagnosticians, animal health Penh. Keepers purchase provisions for technicians and emergency managers to combat animal disease outbreaks zoo animals each day, seeking out together. It will also be an opportunity for these experts to discuss and exchange information to better understand and combat developing diseases. bargains from local markets. There are no abattoirs for poultry in Cambodia. International emergency assistance such as that given by New Zealand to the UK Recently dead and ill birds are sold as when about 30 personnel were supplied during the 2001 foot and mouth outbreak slaughtered meat in markets, perhaps has been given on an informal basis. The new agreement officially ensures the accounting for the public preference for signatories that they can rely on each other for expert support in the case of an “fresh” live birds. animal disease outbreak. Thirty-four raptors died between 15 The agreement was signed by Chief Veterinary Officers from the six countries at December 2003 and 1 January 2004. the May conference of the Office International des Epizooties, the world Herons, egrets and cranes were organisation for animal health, in Paris. subsequently affected, suggesting While the primary objective of sending New Zealand animal health personnel to respiratory transmission or mediation work in overseas outbreak responses is to provide assistance, it also provides through free-living or wild birds such as invaluable experience to help strengthen this country’s preparedness. Continued on page 11

10 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Bird flu: continued from page 10 eagle owl, crested serpent eagle, changeable hawk eagle, large large billed crows that frequent the billed crow and grey heron. aviary areas. Thirty-two aquatic feeders died between December 17 and January It is interesting to note that 13. Most of these birds were released or wild cats also showed signs of free living individuals that frequented a disease (primarily lethargy and pond 200 metres from the raptor aviary. inappetance) during the December-January period of The remaining 20 birds to die bird deaths. comprised of a hornbill, crows, parakeets, peafowl, jungle and guinea Diagnostic results from samples fowl. A third of these were free-flying taken were not available at the crows and it is thought that more of Dorothy Geale (left) with animal health officials from time of writing, but it is known these may have died but not been Cambodia and Vietnam during her recent visit to in Thailand that two domestic counted. Most of the latter are Cambodia. cats were found to have omnivores or scavenging birds. Only toxicology analysis in Bangkok. Birds antibodies in their blood, indicating two frugivores (hornbill and parakeet) were finally sent directly to the Pasteur exposure to the disease, and a tiger died died in the first week of the episode Institute du Cambodge for avian of H5N1. influenza diagnosis in January when the which may or may not be related to Dorothy Geale, the epidemic. presence of bird flu became known in Programme Coordinator, South East Asia. In an effort to diagnose the disease, Exotic Disease Response, Animal Biosecurity, cente officials submitted birds for post At this laboratory, H5N1 was confirmed phone 04 498 9884, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in mortem to a private veterinary practice [email protected] for infectious disease investigation and the Alexandrine parakeet, spot bellied New internal parasite found in ostriches Wire worm (Libyostrongylus Taxonomically, kiwis are douglassii) has been found in probably closer to rheas New Zealand for the first time. than ostriches. The discovery of the internal parasites The risk to kiwis is was made on an ostrich farm in the unlikely but not certain. North Island. The possibility of L. douglassii is a parasite of the upper interaction with kiwis in gastro-intestinal tract in young the wild is remote, but in ostriches. It lives in the surface places such as zoos and epithelium and sucks blood causing a aviaries, ostrich-derived severe inflammatory reaction and eggs or larvae could anaemia. Symptoms include stoppage of come into contact with Mortality among wire worm-infested ostriches can be high, but digestion and anaemia, and mortality effective treatment with deworming products is available. kiwis by contaminated can be significant. The parasite is Photo: Phil Stewart, Words & Pictures. footwear or other endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and Live ostriches were imported into New mechanical means. There are no human South America but has also been Zealand between 1992-96 – none have health risks. reported in farmed ratites in South been imported since then. The Records indicate that there are 291 Africa, Australia, the United Kingdom, conditions in the import health ostrich farms and a total of 13,770 and North America. Wild birds do not standards at the time included a ostriches in New Zealand. There are spread the parasite. treatment for gastro-intestinal parasites. three slaughter houses operating which This suggests that L. douglassii has been Wire worm eggs are passed in the faeces process ostriches: Feilding and a new present in New Zealand for at least 8 of infected birds and can remain operation in Waimana in the North years and it is probably widespread. infective on pasture for as long as three Island, and Clover in the South Island. years. Effective treatment with Implications for New Zealand The ostrich industry is represented by deworming products available in the New Zealand Ostrich Association Libyostrongylus parasites appear to be New Zealand can be applied every 28 which has about 50 members. The host-specific for ratites. The only days to break the life cycle. This is the Ostrich and Emu Standards Council approach adopted overseas for endemic ratite in New Zealand is managing the organism. the kiwi. Continued on page 12

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 11 Ants recognised as Pacific’s most serious pest threat

An overview of the Pacific Ant Prevention Plan proposal was presented at the joint Regional Biosecurity, Plant Protection and Attendees at the joint Regional Animal Health meeting in Regional Suva, Fiji in March 2004. The aim was Biosecurity, Plant Protection to gain endorsement for the plan from and Regional the Pacific Island Countries and Animal Health meeting in Territories (PICTs). Suva, Fiji. The meeting was attended by representatives from 21 PICTs and was a great opportunity to increase awareness • recognises red imported fire ant Secretariat of the Pacific Community, of the serious threats posed by invasive (RIFA) and other invasive ants as the Pacific Invasive Ant Group and the ants and the financial implications of some of the most serious pest threats Invasive Species Specialist Group to not preventing their spread through in the region. Unlike other collaboratively source funding and to the region. quarantine pests RIFA can cause implement the Pacific Ant Prevention The proposal (see Biosecurity 49:9) was direct impact on human, animal and Plan in a way that is compatible with developed by the Pacific Invasive Ant plant life and can devastate island PICT needs and capability. ecosystems and livelihoods. Group (PIAG) which includes Expect further updates as more progress representatives from the Department of • supports the efforts of the Pacific is made. Conservation, MAF, National Plant Pest Invasive Ant Group and Simon O’Connor, recommends that Secretariat of the Reference Laboratory (NPPRL), Invasive Technical Adviser, Species Specialist Group, Landcare Pacific Community (SPC), South Indigenous Flora and Fauna, Research Ltd, Victoria University, Pacific Regional Environment MAF Biosecurity Coordination, United States Department of Programme and PICTs work phone 04 498 9939, Agriculture, South Pacific Regional together to prevent the entry of this fax 04 470 2730, Environment Programme, the Nature pest into the PICTs. [email protected] Conservancy, Fire Ant Control Centre, • recommends an increased awareness Souad Boudjelas, Secretariat of the Pacific Community campaign, training on identification IUCN/SCC Invasive Species and AgriQuality Ltd. of RIFA and other invasive species to Specialist Group, Auckland University enable surveillance and monitoring The proposal was well received and (Tamaki Campus), in the PICTs. discussed further during a working Private Bag 92019, group session. • recommends that SPC-Plant Auckland, Protection Service focus on RIFA phone 09 3737 599 ext 86805, Based on the outcomes of this session, and other invasive ants and to draft fax 09 373 7042, the following recommendations were preparedness plans. [email protected] unanimously endorsed by the delegates www.issg.org/PAPP.htm at the conclusion of the meeting on Now it is up to the South Pacific 19 March, that the meeting: Regional Environment Programme, the

Ostriches: continued from page 11 veterinarians can be developed to assist targeting ostrich farmers, ostrich with the management of L. douglassii in veterinarians, laboratory parasitologists operates as an advisory group for MAF. New Zealand. In collaboration with the and ostrich slaughterhouse veterinarians The industry is relatively small; last year Department of Conservation, MAF’s to ensure enhanced reporting of about 8000 birds were slaughtered and Indigenous Flora and Fauna unit is suspected infection. 75 percent of the meat was exported. conducting an initial assessment of the Actions by MAF Dorothy Geale, potential exposure of kiwi to ostriches. Programme Coordinator, MAF has commissioned a MAF immediately advised the New Exotic Disease Response, comprehensive literature review to assist Zealand Ostrich Association of the Animal Biosecurity, decision making, and from which presence of the parasite and has phone 04 498 9884, information for farmers and developed a communication plan [email protected]

12 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Biosecurity flavour to Entomological Society gathering

The 53rd annual Entomological Society of New Zealand conference held in April was preceded by a two day A sight sure to set an entomologist’s pulse symposium “Biosecurity at the Border”. racing – a giant weta. These events provided an opportunity MAF staff had the opportunity to discuss for MAF staff to discuss a range of biosecurity issues biosecurity issues with staff from all with members of the Entomological Society major government departments and at their conference crown research institutes. in April. Photo by J.L. Kendrick ©Department of Papers presented by MAF staff covered Conservation. sea container pathways, assessments of biosecurity risks to indigenous flora and fauna, forestry/plant pest surveillance, border interceptions, as well as response collections. The first outing was to the Christine Reed, Manager, updates on ant and moth incursions. proposed site of a new wildlife reserve in Nelson similar to that at Karori, Indigenous Flora and Fauna Team, MAF Biosecurity Authority, MAF sponsored the keynote Wellington, with the second trip to the phone 04 470 2756, presentation to the conference Nelson Lakes and nearby national parks. symposium by Dr Cas Vanderwoude fax: 04 470 2741, [email protected] (Queensland Department of Primary MAF Biosecurity staff would like to Industries and Fisheries) on efforts to thank Amelia Pascoe for organising Brendan Murphy, eradicate red imported fire ants in MAF’s contribution and sponsorship of National Adviser, Brisbane. Other papers covered a range the conference. Forest Pest Surveillance and Response, of relevant entomological and Joan Breach, MAF Biosecurity Authority, National Adviser, biosecurity issues, such as new detection phone 04 498 9806, Information Management technologies, health assessments on fax 04 470 2741, (Plant Imports), wasps and mosquitoes, and insect [email protected] pollination of GE crops. MAF Biosecurity Authority, phone 04 474 4248, For abstracts from the conference:. Two field trips were arranged to allow fax 04 474 4257, www.ento.org.nz/confabs04.pdf the entomologists to add to their [email protected] Ant surveillance picks up incursions With recent exotic ant discoveries in yards, transitional facilities and some the port of Napier. RIFA is native to Napier and Wellington, the National nurseries. Over the last 3 years the southern Brazil and is one of the world’s Exotic Invasive Ant Surveillance programme has been responsible for the worst invasive ant species. It is a serious Programme is again proving its worth. detection and subsequent response to a unwanted pest that will aggressively range of species including the crazy ant, defend its nest, swarming out and over The programme was initiated in March yellow crazy ant, ghost ant, tropical fire the mound to repeatedly sting anything 2001 after red imported fire ants (RIFA) ant and red imported fire ant. So far that appears a threat. were found at Auckland International there has been no indication of these RIFA can destroy seeds, commercial Airport in March that year. They were species having established outside subsequently eradicated. crops and other flora and is capable of border control areas. killing reptiles and small mammals. It It has been designed with the aim of Exotic ant incursions are keeping MAF can also be attracted to electrical early detection of invasive ants, incursion investigator teams busy as systems and cause short circuits. This focusing on RIFA as the number one they respond to new discoveries in particular species has become a serious target species. places where invasive ants have not environmental, economic and human previously been detected. health pest in Australia and the southern The programme has ensured the United States. continual surveillance of high risk areas Red imported fire ant in Napier including international ports, container Earlier this year RIFA was discovered at Continued on page 14

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 13 Trans-Tasman relationship strengthened

When it comes to footie or cricket, Trans-Tasman relations can be a little, well, prickly at times. But when Sally Griffin of MAF Biosecurity’s International Team attended an annual meeting of New Zealand and Australian biosecurity officials last month, she found it was all ANZAC mateship and cooperation, with no sign of the sledging and biffo we sometimes see on the sports field. The Australian and New Zealand Not an agenda item at the Trans-Tasman meeting. Consultative Group on Biosecurity Cooperation (CGBC) had its 6th annual handbook, negotiating the SPS the opportunity to move on to higher- meeting in Canberra on 7 May. The provisions in the United States and level strategic cooperation in future. Thai Free Trade Agreements, and agenda covered various market access From the perspective of a first timer at dealing with the Cormo Express issue issues, and allowed an opportunity for the CGBC, it was clear that the (as a result of which Australia is soon to updates on the key issues preoccupying relationship with our Trans Tasman establish a Veterinary Counsellor each country. The hospitality shown the neighbours is going from strength to position in Dubai). New Zealand contingent was second to strength. The meeting was held in good none and set the scene for a warm and Barry O’Neil, Group Director of MAF’s humour, with both sides supportive and sincere atmosphere in which to discuss Biosecurity Authority, gave a run down cooperative in their approach to issues the various issues. on New Zealand developments, focusing of mutual interest. One of the major agenda items was the on the Government’s Biosecurity It is certainly a good indication of the country updates. Biosecurity Australia Strategy and consultation on strategy group’s success in the gradual working (BA) has been through an intensive implementation. The Australians found through of outstanding market access period of work since the last CGBC this information to be extremely requests, and now with the future meeting in March 2003, having released interesting as the current New Zealand meetings looking to focus the continued three of the “biggest import risk analyses Biosecurity Authority structure mirrors cooperation on more strategic issues, known to man” (apples from New the Australian system. our working relationship seems set to Zealand, a generic import risk analysis The CGBC meeting received three continue to prosper. for pig meat, and bananas from the reports from its working groups on Sally Griffin, Technical Adviser, Philippines). plants, animals and operations. All three International Team, Other challenges for BA include groups reported that their schedule for Phone 04 474 4140, working on Australia’s response to WTO resolution of specific bilateral trade Fax 04 4702730 cases, updating the import risk analysis issues is nearing an end, leaving them [email protected]

Ants: continued from page 13 The crazy ant is well-known as an containment, delimiting the spread and invasive species. It is a serious predator eradication of the new finds and on- If RIFA were to establish and spread in of other insects, feeding on honeydew, going monitoring of past treated sites. New Zealand, the annual cost to this fruit, and household food and is a country would be at least $318m. There Eradication treatments appear to have significant household nuisance and are also unknown, but potentially been effective, as there have been no hygiene pest. The crazy ant is native to significant environmental costs, such as further finds during follow-up surveys Asia or Africa and has established in the the impact on New Zealand’s native at most of the sites where MAF has southern United States and several plants and animals. discovered and responded to exotic ants. Pacific countries. Crazy ant in Wellington Amelia Pascoe, Outlook Programme Coordinator, An exotic ant incursion was discovered MAF’s national invasive ant technical Exotic Animal Response, at the port of Wellington in March 2004. advisory group has advised that an area Animal Biosecurity, The surveillance programme at the port needs to be confirmed free of invasive phone 04 4702785, [email protected] resulted in MAF incursion investigators ant populations for at least 2 years being immediately sent to the site where before eradication can be confirmed. www.maf.govt.nz/fire-ants they destroyed a nest of crazy ants. Response activities are aimed at

14 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Model age spread: using mathematics to plot pests

life stage(s) of the pest they attack. Obviously we want an agent that will do the most damage to the pest population.” Darren Darren Kriticos gets a gleam in his eye when discussing the strategic benefits of of Forest Research – the modelling technology. “It allows us to play war games applying modelling technique to a against the pest,” he smiles. number of species. Not restricted to predicting the movements of crawling invaders, Darren has recently completed a project in conjunction with AgResearch to assess the threat of Nassella “How much of a pest will it become?” This is one of the trichotoma (nassella tussock) to New Zealand pasture. This weed species is currently concentrated in the northern half of most pressing questions in biosecurity whenever a new the South Island. It has the potential to become a scourge to intruder slips through the net. Ecological modellers are pastures in the south east of the North Island, and throughout proving that you don’t need a crystal ball to find how far and Canterbury and Otago (see map). Originally from Argentina, how fast a problem species is likely to spread. nassella tussock has been classified as a weed of national Researchers have developed mathematical models to predict significance in Australia, where it is known as serrated tussock. the potential spread of pest and weed populations. By There it is found in the cooler, moister parts of New South combining geographical and climate data to infer the preferred Wales and Victoria, covering an area the size of New Zealand. destinations of the pest, the modelling approach can give a Planning containment strategies clear picture of what areas are under threat. “By getting a clear picture of how far a problem species can Dr Darren Kriticos of Forest Research is applying this spread, you can then use this information to focus surveillance technique to a number of pest species in New Zealand. efforts and work out the best strategies for containment,” Having spent many years at CSIRO Entomology in Canberra Darren says. “One of the biggest problems facing biosecurity developing population models, he has brought his knowledge authorities is that of cost-benefit analysis. Mathematical across the Tasman to help tackle pests which favour the models can take a lot of the guesswork out of broad scale pest same route. management by demonstrating how money spent in one Australian-developed model particular area could effectively save an entire region. You can only be sure of this if you know how big the problem could Under contract to MAF, Darren is currently applying the become if you do nothing.” CLIMEX model developed in Australia to predict where Uraba lugens (gumleaf skeletoniser) is likely to spread in New [email protected] Zealand, and how bad it could get in different parts of the country. As part of the same contract he is also developing a population dynamics model of Uraba. “This model helps us to figure out which life stages are best to target in pest control operations: the eggs, the caterpillars or the moths,” he explains. Potential spread of nassella tussock in New Zealand. This is a While helpful in providing intelligence on likely enemy vigorous weed species movements, models can also help to position the “good guys”. that threatens pastureland Working with the Forest Health group at Forest Research in in dry areas. Rotorua, Darren is also using models to predict the population dynamics of potential biological control agents. “When considering biological control options, it is helpful to know whether the target species and the predator will occupy the same geographic range, and also when and where to release the predator. The CLIMEX model will help us answer these questions,” he says. War games The other burning question is whether the predator species is likely to provide effective control. “The population dynamics model will help us prioritise the agents depending upon which

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 15 North American conference highlights significant forestry pests Nearly 200 forest entomologists, pathologists, and regulatory of risk/hazard maps based on host plants, nursery imports and authority and forest industry representatives from Canada, climate in identification of the areas most at risk from SOD. Mexico, New Zealand, Puerto Rico and the United States, Other useful presentations included: met during April in San Diego. They met to exchange information on recent developments in pests and diseases of • Research and management of nursery diseases, pitch Western North American forests. canker, SOD and Cylindrocarpon • Transmission of pitch canker by seeds and early detection It was the fifth Joint Meeting of the Western North American in nurseries. This is significant, as the outbreaks of pitch Forest Insect (WFICW) and Western International Forest canker in Chile and South Africa were detected in nurseries Disease (WFIDW) Work Conference. Issues dear to our hearts, such as pitch canker, sudden oak death (SOD) and wood • Change of nectria canker disease patterns in hardwood and boring and bark beetles, were a major focus of the conference. conifer species and future research on identification of disease development and control Dr Shiroma Sathyapala, National Adviser – Import Health • Latest research findings on the role of endemic Standards, attended from New Zealand. saprotrophic beetle fauna in SOD diseases, progression and The programme included six concurrent sessions on: relationships between P. ramorum canker and failure potential in coast live oak. This information has provided a • regional research programme on bark beetles and significant input for SOD risk assessment studies in pathogens of conifers in North American forests New Zealand. • current status of the eradication programme for SOD in The group praised MAF’s quarantine measures, which led to Western North America the detection of pitch canker pathogen Fusarium circinatum in • tree diseases and mortality in California forests impacted Douglas fir scion material imported from California. by ozone On the third day of the conference a field trip to Cleveland • research on pitch canker in Central Sierra Nevada national forest demonstrated the devastating effects of the • USDA Healthy Forests Restoration Act recent forest fires which destroyed over 140,000 hectares of • databases for pest information and tree mortality . forest. In addition, excessive tree mortality due to a The WFIDW had working group committees to exchange combination of attacks of root diseases Armillaria, current research findings and issues in nursery pathology, Heterobasidion annosum, Western pine beetle (Dendroctonus dwarf mistletoe, rust diseases, root diseases and hazard trees. brevicomis), Ips spp and dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium occidentale) suggested necessity for an integrated pest Dr Mark Stanley, Chair of the Californian Oak Mortality Task management strategy to reduce tree losses. All these pests and Force highlighted the emergency measures taken in response to pathogens are unwanted organisms in New Zealand. the detection of Phytophthora ramorum in Monrovia Nursery in California. The Task Force focuses on the potentially Shiroma Sathyapala, devastating effects of the pathogen, which caused an outbreak National Adviser – Import Health Standard, Forest Biosecurity, of SOD and which is killing large numbers of the native oaks phone 04 470 2757, fax 04 498 9888, [email protected] and tanoaks in California’s coastal regions. He outlined the use Gypsy moth and fall webworm responses – No news is good news Gypsy moth and fall webworm responses are entering a quiet • maintain intensive trapping grids until end of the season in period. No activity of these extremely voracious pests has April 2005 been detected in Hamilton and Auckland since March last • maintain public awareness of the pests year. None of the pests have been detected – either in the • organise one last ground search for caterpillars in intensive trapping grids, by ground search, or by the alert December 2004. residents of Hamilton and Auckland. If no further activity is detected by April 2005, experts advise On 23 April 2004, MAF convened the gypsy moth and fall that the battle against gypsy moth and fall webworm will have webworm Technical Advisory Group to seek advice on actions been won, and MAF will be able to proudly declare eradication for the coming period. On the strength of the expert advice it achieved. has received, MAF will: Davor Bejakovich, National Manager, Forest Pest Surveillance and Response, Forest Biosecurity, • maintain tight vegetation movement controls in the phone 03 325 7132, fax 03 325 7134, controlled areas in Hamilton and Auckland [email protected]

16 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Surveillance for two serious forestry pests refined Wood boring and bark beetle (WBBB) move around the world with ease. For and gypsy moth surveillance are high example, egg masses are often hidden on impact exotic pests that could vehicles, containers and ships; it has the establish in New Zealand. The ability to suspend normal development surveillance programmes run by MAF when conditions are unfavourable to Forest Biosecurity for these pests have growth; and larval ‘ballooning’ allows been reviewed, and operational them to disperse widely on air currents. changes made for the recently Imported containers, used vehicles and completed trapping season. the ships that transport them from countries such as Japan or the Russian Potential disease vectors Far East are considered particularly high The term wood boring and bark beetles risk pathways for gypsy moth. describes a large range of Coleoptera in Gypsy moth surveillance has been the families Curculionidae (Scolytinae, running for 10 years, and resulted in the Platypodinae etc.), Buprestidae, detection of a male gypsy moth in Cerambycidae etc. WBBB are frequently Hamilton in March 2003. Nationally, intercepted at New Zealand ports after gypsy moth surveillance uses 1100 traps travelling from other parts of the world which are checked fortnightly from in timber, wood products and dunnage. Lindgren trap used in the WBBB November to April. After the Hamilton They are a threat to both exotic surveillance programme. detection, it was concluded that trap plantation and urban forests. Not only is New Zealand WBBB species had deployment in a grid pattern would the physical damage caused by these established. During the following assist in locating populations if future beetles undesirable, but many species are season, ports and timber yards were detections were made. Grids 750 metres potential vectors for diseases such as targeted. In the 2003/04 trapping season square are placed around identified risk pitch canker (Fusarium circinatum) or (November – April), trap clusters were sites, with a trap located in each grid pine wilt nematode (Bursaphelenchus removed from risk sites and placed in square out to 1.5 km from the site xylophilus). the nearest suitable conifer plantings. centre. A series of buffer zones using the Nationally, WBBB surveillance consists This improves the capacity to actually same specifications are placed around of 120 trap clusters near risk sites for detect a newly established population port entrances and other areas where this group. Each cluster comprises five rather than intercepting beetles there is a reasonable probability of Lindgren traps baited with a lure or emerging from risk goods. larvae ballooning from infested ships. attractant. The combinations being used Gypsy moth disperses widely A significant advance in both have been proven to attract a wide range Gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) is programmes has been the of target species in MAF-funded field familiar to most New Zealanders comprehensive use of GIS systems to trials in the United States. interested in biosecurity. It feeds map high risk sites and the trapping In its first year (2001/02), WBBB voraciously on many different tree grids. The current service provider, surveillance confirmed that no new to species and its biology enables it to AgriQuality records GPS coordinates for every WBBB and gypsy moth trap to provide MAF with accurate trapping maps. This allows rapid visual identification of any errors or gaps. Future work will concentrate on increasing our ability to identify risk sites for these two pest groups. GPS technology allows pest Brendan Murphy, surveillance to be National Adviser, planned with Forest Pest Surveillance greater precision. and Response, Forest Biosecurity, phone 04 498 9806, fax 04 470 2741, [email protected]

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 17 Increased scrutiny paying dividends Look, and you will find. That aphorism As at 21 April 2004, 8770 accredited certainly rings true since MAF has persons had been trained either by MAF stepped up inspections of incoming Quarantine Service staff, approved sea containers. And what’s been found personnel from a contracted service is that even containers classified as provider, AgriChain Centre Limited, or low-risk can conceal significant through the MAF web-based training biosecurity risks. module. The training will be devolved to the private sector from 1 July 2004. Nearly 700 reports of contamination in containers have been received from The contamination found by accredited accredited persons undertaking persons, which is close to half of all the container checks since the new Sea An accredited person at Top Tranz Ltd contaminated loaded containers Auckland prepares to inspect this incoming Container Standard was implemented sea container. reported in 2004, demonstrates the on 1 January 2004. value of having low-risk containers containers with red-back spiders, six checked by accredited persons, both on These finds have included everything with lizards and three with frogs or the wharf and during devanning. The from small amounts of soil and seeds, toads. Some recent finds include: data from these interceptions will be which were swept out of containers and • two separate interceptions of assessed to identify predictive put into Quarantine bins on site, to live containers with live larvae of the associations between the incidence of insects, spiders, snails, lizards and a cane Australian white cedar moth contamination and factors such as port toad. While most of these reports are (Leptocneria reducta); these are the of loading, exporter, type of cargo and from loaded containers, accredited same family (Lymantriidae) as goods origin. As new profiles are persons at transitional facilities cleaning painted apple moth and Asian identified, these will be used to further empty containers have also reported gypsy moth, but with only a single define and refine MAF’s specification finding live ants, cockroaches and soil. known host for high-risk containers. All high-risk Insects, spiders and contaminated wood • two separate interceptions of false containers are stopped by MAF for packaging each make up about a quarter powder post beetle (Sinoxylon anale) external and/or internal inspection, of the reported interceptions. The in wood packing material as required. remaining quarter is mainly seeds and • more than 20 interceptions of Michael Alexander, soil, with a few incidents of other types National Adviser – Border Standards, containers with live ants, including of contaminants, including leaves, grass, MAF Biosecurity Authority, Paratrechina longicornis, Anoplolepis other plant material and manure. phone 04 474 4280, gracilipes, Camponotus pennsylvanicus fax 04 470 2738, Accredited persons have found 13 and other species. [email protected] Training for accredited persons The Import Health Standard for Sea the MAF Quarantine Service provided For copies of the draft document Containers requires that containers be training both in the classroom and via Requirements for Organisations Providing given a basic biosecurity check by an the internet. This training was Crown Training on Behalf of the Ministry accredited person prior to receiving funded and no charge was made to of Agriculture and Forestry Border biosecurity clearance. industry. From 1 July 2004, the training Management Group look under Border of accredited persons will be contracted Management at: The check involves examination of the to the private sector. exterior and interior of the container www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/ consultation.htm and any packing material for To ensure the quality and consistency of contaminants that may pose a service, a draft document has been For hard copies: biosecurity risk. The accredited person is produced outlining the requirements Tricia Caughley, usually (but not always) an employee of for training accredited persons. All MAF Biosecurity Authority, the importing organisation or their training providers will need to comply PO Box 2526, Wellington, agent. There are also requirements for with the requirements outlined in the phone 04 470 2769, the accredited person to contain any final document. fax 04 498 9888, contamination found, report it to MAF [email protected] Organisations wanting to provide and to keep records relating to their Comments on the document should training for accredited persons are biosecurity activities. be provided to Tricia Caughley by invited to submit applications for 15 July 2004. During the initial phase of the standard, approval based on the draft document.

18 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Wildlife at the borderline In Biosecurity 51:21 we reported on International Trade in Endangered parrots intercepted by British the discovery of a live frog in the in- Species of Wild Fauna and Flora authorities at Heathrow were incubated flight salad served to a passenger on a (CITES).This is administered by the and most of the birds were saved. Had flight to New Zealand. The report Department of Conservation (DoC) but these birds made it to New Zealand, generated world-wide media interest also impacts on MAF through both the they probably would have been and raised the pertinent question: what Trade in Endangered Species Act and destroyed. The most desirable time to happens to viable wildlife intercepted the Biosecurity Act. relocate in the case of birds is while they are still eggs; after hatching, the disease at New Zealand’s borders? Ann MAF is required by legislation under the risk is greater. Panoho, MAF’s representative on the Biosecurity Act to notify DoC when Wildlife Enforcement Group, a multi- something listed under CITES schedules Repatriation or relocation of intercepted agency group comprising 1, 2 or 3 may have been located. While flora and fauna can be difficult, as representatives from DOC, Customs and containing risk is paramount, the plant couriers are often unwilling to divulge MAF, explains what happens. or animal involved may be an where the specimens were sourced. endangered species. In these cases, DoC Whether it’s a frog in a salad, a lizard in And why was the frog in the salad not would consider repatriation – or at least underwear, or plants in a suitcase, our returned to its Australian homeland? some solution other than death and borders are subject to increased pressure Unfortunately for the frog, destruction. from incursions of plants and animals. notwithstanding the disease risk it may Some may be hitchhikers and some a For example, chameleons intercepted in have posed, it was a whistling tree-frog criminal attempt to smuggle New Zealand were placed at a zoo in the (Litoria vereauxii) – a widely-distributed unauthorised goods into New Zealand. UK after the necessary health permits species found in abundant numbers. had been issued. In another case, parrot MAF’s main concern is biosecurity and Ann Panoho, protecting New Zealand from the pest eggs intercepted in New Zealand were Wildlife Enforcement Group, or disease risk that smuggled flora and taken to Singapore’s Jurong Bird Park phone 09 359 6632, fauna can present. Another before they hatched. [email protected] or [email protected] consideration is The Convention on A clutch of New Zealand-bound rare Consultation on changes to import requirements for plants MAF is responsible for setting and sources plants. “As a result of the will receive notifications of all proposed reviewing the import requirements for comments made during consultation, changes to import requirements for plants and plant products and is the Plants Group frequently makes plants and notification when these committed to consulting with changes to the proposed requirements, changes are introduced. for example the adoption of alternative interested parties when these 2. The internet requirements are revised. treatments or changing the introduction date,” Gerard says. The Plants Group publishes details of all “MAF understands that not everyone is proposed changes to import aware of the consultation process,” says “The only exception to this consultation requirements for plants on MAF’s Dr Gerard Clover, National Adviser – process is when changes are minor or website: Nursery Stock. must happen urgently – for example, if www.maf.govt.nz/consultation/ there is a new disease outbreak “In order to address this issue, MAF has overseas.” 3. Biosecurity magazine allocated extra resources to make sure The Plants Group publishes details of MAF is unable to write individually to that this information is available to proposed changes to plant import each person who may be affected by the interested parties. requirements and notification when revised import requirements and has these changes are introduced in the “Whenever changes in these therefore adopted three ways in which to “Update” section of MAF’s magazine requirements are proposed, MAF notify people in New Zealand of Biosecurity. To be added to the consults with affected parties such as proposed changes: importers and growers, to ensure that distribution list for this free publication, we are fully informed about the 1. Email notification please contact: potential impact of any proposed MAF has set up various free email lists Biosecurity Magazine, changes.” to which anyone can subscribe by MAF Biosecurity Authority, providing details of their area of interest PO Box 2526, Consultation normally lasts about 6 and email address (see www.maf.govt.nz Wellington, weeks. MAF also consults, via the World /bio-lists). phone 04 474 4100, Trade Organisation, with overseas fax 04 498 9888, countries from which New Zealand By joining the “Plant Imports” list you [email protected]

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 19 Plant protection conference in The Netherlands Veronica Herrera from MAF Plants testing. Newer techniques such as the Biosecurity and Brett Alexander from use of real time PCR (polymerase chain the National Plant Pest Reference reaction) and distant analysis as tools Laboratory recently attended the for pathogen and invertebrate European Plant Protection Organisation identification were discussed. Several (EPPO) Conference held in presenters talked about more advanced Noordwijkerhout, the Netherlands. The tools such as the use of micro-arrays, conference covered papers on the potentially enabling the identification of quality of diagnosis and new a large number of pathogens in one test. diagnostic methods for plant pests. Preparation of tissue extract samples for virus However these tools are still at an testing at the BKD Bloembollenkeuringsdienst experimental stage. Accreditation a challenge Institute in the Netherlands. Field visits The conference focused on accreditation Reference collections at risk of plant pest diagnostic laboratories and During the conference, delegates visited techniques for plant pest identification. The role and fate of reference Naktuinbouw and the BKD Many laboratories are required to invertebrate and microbial collections Bloembollenkeuringsdienst Institute. become accredited to NZS/ISO/IEC was also discussed. Despite their Naktuinbouw, the Netherlands 17025 (General requirements for the importance, collections generally have Inspection Service for Horticulture, competence of testing and calibration insufficient resources for conservation monitors and promotes the quality of laboratories). and curation, creating a risk that unique products, processes and chains relating material and data may be lost. to the production of propagating However this is proving to be a big Taxonomists are also becoming fewer, material. Naktuinbouw also offers a challenge for most laboratories due to with some groups of organisms wide range of services for the the energy and resources needed to receiving little or no attention. It was floricultural, arboricultural and implement the necessary systems and proposed that possibly the only vegetable sectors. BKD specialises in the processes for accreditation. Part of the solutions reside at the European or inspection and testing of a variety of problem is also related to small numbers perhaps international level, by creating a bulbs species such as tulips, lilies of validated tests, the poor availability of merger of collections and centres of and hippeastrum. reference material and deficient excellence. Recommendations will be Veronica Herrera, proficiency testing. Findings from the presented to the EPPO council. Manager Plant, Imports Team, conference will be reported to the EPPO Diagnostic techniques [email protected] council with recommendations for preparing guidelines for laboratory Papers at the conference also discussed a Brett Alexander, Team Leader, accreditation. These guidelines may help range of immunological and molecular Pathology, Virology and Nematology, techniques within the context of to facilitate the process for different [email protected] laboratories. sampling, validation and proficiency

20 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 GMO testing methods focus of international seminar GMOs: after the moratorium was the biotechnology, consumers in other specific and can detect these genes even focus of the XIIth International Eurofins countries showed reluctance to a degree at low levels. that legislation was put in place which seminar this year in Paris, 26-27 The quantification of GMO has a requires labelling of such products. February. Attended by MAF Plants significant impact on all involved: Biosecurity Adviser Kathryn Hurr, the However, labelling regulations in most farmers, traders, producers and seminar canvassed a range of topics countries take into account that a consumers. Any rejected load has cost including consumer acceptance, the certain degree of adventitious GM implications, often for both buyer and new European labelling and presence is unavoidable. Therefore seller. In order to have reliable results, traceability regulations, GMO detection thresholds were introduced below which independent analytical laboratories need methods, and co-existence between labelling is not required. These to have rigorous quality assurance conventional and biotechnology threshold levels differ between countries systems in place as well as being derived crops. and range from 0.9% in Europe to 5% recognised by the competent authorities. in Japan. “Europe is not in a post-moratorium New Zealand currently has a “zero state at the moment”,says Kathryn, In order to comply with these tolerance” policy for imported seed for “although approvals to grow biotech regulations, systems had to be developed sowing. Imported food is permitted to which allow the detection of presence or contain up to 1% GM presence, maize are currently being considered in absence of genetically modified material providing that the GM is a New Zealand Great Britain, and Germany plans to and, in the case of presence, accurately Food Safety Authority-approved variety authorise biotech maize later on determine the amount. Quantitative for food and/or feed. this year.” PCR is the most commonly used Kathryn Hurr, While consumers in some countries do technique for assessing the amount of phone 04 474 4157, not appear to be concerned about eating biotechnology-derived genes present fax 04 474 4257, products derived from modern within a sample. The technique is [email protected]

Biosecurity interests considered at international civil aviation conference

The increased international movement of aircraft, these were approved by the World Health Organisation and the passengers and freight creates critical biosecurity risks to contracting state. New Zealand and Australia are jointly New Zealand. Significant effort is being put into developing reviewing the United States-led air curtain trial results. There innovative methods for the managing biosecurity risks in are some limitations that will need to be resolved before the this pathway. technology is considered for use. Involvement in forums such as the International Civil Aviation Pre-arrival assessment Organisation (ICAO) enables New Zealand to be at the leading Also discussed were advanced passenger information and the edge of the development of border management initiatives. use of biometric identification. This is especially relevant to the work New Zealand is doing internationally on the concept of Eighty two contracting states and seventeen observer pre-arrival risk assessment of passengers for biosecurity organisations attended the Twelfth Session of the ICAO purposes. Pre-arrival risk assessment has significant facilitation Facilitation Division, held in Cairo Egypt from 22 March to 2 and cost benefits. April 2004. New Zealand has agreed to assist in the development of the The Facilitation Division meets every eight to ten years to biosecurity section of a proposed facilitation manual. The consider changes to standards and recommended practices manual will provide the technical detail necessary to enable contained in Annex 9 of the Chicago Convention. The contracting states to comply with standards and recommended Convention deals with global requirements for civil aviation. practices in Annex 9. Neil H Hyde, Director Border Management, MAF Biosecurity, was alternate Delegation Leader for New Zealand and Other agencies represented MAF. Other agencies represented in the New Zealand session Air curtain technology discussed delegation were the Ministry of Transport, New Zealand Immigration Service, New Zealand Customs Service and A wide range of facilitation issues were discussed in respect of New Zealand Passports Office. Air New Zealand attended the movement of aircraft, passengers and freight between as an observer. countries. Of particular relevance to biosecurity in New Zealand were papers dealing with the use of air curtains as an Neil H Hyde, alternative to chemical aircraft disinsection. It was agreed that Director Border Management, MAF Biosecurity Authority, non-chemical methods of disinsection would be used where [email protected]

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 21 New blueberry pest blows in A fungus new to New Zealand, Rusts are epidemic diseases that are produce large numbers of spores which Naohidemyces vaccinii, or blueberry usually widely distributed by the time can spread long distances by the wind. they are detected, and consequently rust, was detected on rabbiteye and In response to these considerations, the eradication is not feasible. Based on highbush blueberries in the Waikato in blueberry industry is investigating world experience with this and other January of this year. The presence of appropriate measures to manage this rust diseases, MAF considers it is this disease in New Zealand cannot be disease. Measures under consideration inevitable that it will spread throughout linked to any recent importations and it include: the country unless climatic barriers is possible that it has blown across • use of resistant varieties prevent the disease from becoming from Australia where the disease has a problem. • chemical controls been present in New South Wales • procedures to limit the effects and since 2001. Blueberry rust appears as reddish spots slow the spread of this rust. on the upper surface of leaves. As the MAF National Plant Pest Reference rust develops it forms clumps of orange- This may include measures applied to Laboratory and HortResearch scientists yellow spores on the undersides of nursery stock, and hygiene precautions prepared fact sheets on the rust for leaves. Leaves may discolour and taken when people from non-infected blueberry growers. This assisted with eventually fall. areas visit blueberry properties in grower identification, reporting of new regions that now have the disease. infected sites and management options. The severity of this disease depends on John Randall, MAF also undertook a survey that the susceptibility of the host plant, National Adviser, number of rust spores present and on showed the rust was widely distributed MAF Plants Biosecurity, Wellington, in the Waikato and grower submissions weather conditions. Rust spores require phone 04 498 9815, confirmed its presence in the Bay moisture for germination but dry fax 04 474 4257, of Plenty. conditions for dispersal. The fungus can [email protected]

New and amended import health Fish food, fish bait, Artemia salina and Artemia fransiscana standards issued – Animals from all countries The manufacturer’s declaration must now be signed by the Pre-cooked heat-and-eat meals containing animal products for human consumption from Canada, European Community manager, not the manufacturer. and the United States The new standard is dated 20 April 2004 and replaces that Canada and the United States have been added to the clauses dated 12 January 2004. advising that importation of commercial consignments of beef Spray-dried bovine and porcine blood products for further products are subject to approval from the New Zealand Food processing into animal food from the United States Safety Authority (NZFSA). An additional clause states that all The following changes have been made to this standard: edible animal products must also comply with the Food Act • Animal food definition changed to remove ruminants and 1981. Importers are advised to check with NZFSA prior to mammalian animal species replaced with non-ruminant importation for details of the restrictions. animals. The new standard is dated 20 April 2004 and replaces that • Added Specified Risk Materials (SRMs) to definitions. The definition used is that from EU Regulation 999/2001and is dated 20 August 2003. included in the petfood import health standards. Specified products for human consumption containing dairy • Clause 9.3 of the Veterinary Certificate regarding BSE products, eggs or meat country freedom for bovine products has been replaced As well as the above addition, two requirements have been with: added to Clause 8.6 of this standard EDIPROIC.ALL. This “In the case of bovine blood products: The products do not clause relates to the importation of private consignments of contain any specified risk materials (SRMs). (Note: See Section dried meat products from other mammalian species and 3 for definition of SRMs.)” reptiles. The requirements now state that the products must be The new standard is dated 20 April 2004 and replaces that shelf-stable and must not contain bone. dated 12 January 2004. The new standard is dated 20 April 2004 and replaces that dated 24 April 2003.

22 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 Shelf-stable petfoods containing animal products Dairy product samples for evaluation In the Eligibility section several cross-references to other import Clause 7.2.2 in Eligibility has been amended to "the product health standards have been changed. PETBOVIC.EEC has been must be in the original, unopened, manufacturer's packaging". revoked so references to this standard have been removed from This standard is dated 11 May 2004 and replaces that dated 4 clauses 8.2 and 8.4, where it has been replaced by reference December 2002. to FODPPPIC.EEC. In clause 8.8 reference to PETBOVIC.EEC Cooked fish from all countries has also been removed; there is no longer an IHS for dried Three changes to this standard: pelleted petfoods containing bovine material from the EU for • reference to fresh water fish has been removed from pets other than dogs and cats. Clause 8.3 has had a note the title added stating that cooked petfood ingredient products from the • A model veterinary certificate has been added; and European Union can now be imported under the • clause 8.3 has been updated for clarification purposes. FODPALIC.EEC. This standard is dated 11 May 2004 and replaces that dated Following the BSE case reported there, the United States has 23 May 2002. been added to notes excluding imports of bovine products from specified counties under certain clauses. The clauses that Egg powders from the European Union bovine products from the United States are now excluded from This is a new import health standard that was notified for being imported under are 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.6 and 8.8. consultation in Biosecurity 49:17. Following a review of submissions received, the standard has been issued and is The new standard is dated 20 April 2004 and replaces that dated 11 May 2004. dated 12 January 2004. Ornamental fish and marine invertebrates from all countries Specified bee products from all countries The following species of coral have been added to this standard Clause 6.6 regarding medicines, health foods and tonics as the Environmental Risk Management Authority has containing bee products such as pollen, royal jelly, propolis, determined that they are not new organisms: honey and bee venom has been changed to allow for products • Capnella imbricata • Litophyton arboreum packaged in sachets to be imported. • Lobophytum pauciflorum • Sarcophyton ehrenbergi This standard is dated 25 March 2004 and replaces that dated • Sarcophyton glaucum • Sinularia dura 1 May 2003. • Sinularia brassica • Sinularia mollis Horses from Australia • Sinularia flexibilis • Xenia elongata Clause 4 of Veterinary Certificate A has been removed as it • Sinularia notanda • Xenia umbellata duplicated examination already covered in Clauses 3.1 and 6.2. • Sarcophyton tenuispiculatum The standard is now is dated 31 March 2004 and replaces that The standard remains dated 24 May 2002. dated 24 September 2003. Alpacas and llamas from Australia Horse semen from Australia This is the revised standard following the version notified for The Establishment of Origin Clause 1.1, regarding EVA, has consultation in Biosecurity 46:19. been re-worded to clarify that the donor stallions must have The standard is now dated 14 May 2004 and replaces that been resident for the 30 days prior to export on premises where dated 4 December 2002. EVA shedder stallions are not known to have been present during that time. The updated standard is dated 31 March Bovine semen from Canada 2004 and replaces that dated 11 August 2003. The clauses in relation to infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus Non-viable animal specimens from all countries (IBR) and bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) have been amended. The new standard is now dated 17 May 2004 and Eligibility clauses 6.1 and 6.3 have been amended to remove replaces that dated 24 February 2004. post clearance specifications for intended use. Clause 6.5 has had the option of pre-export treatment for dried insects added. Malayan sunbears (Helarctos malayanus) from Australia This standard is dated 11 May 2004 and replaces that dated This is a new standard dated 18 May 2004, which was notified 25 September 2001. for consultation in Biosecurity 50:19. Equipment used with animals Canine semen from South Africa A note has been added to the Eligibility section stating that This is a new standard dated 31 May 2004, which was notified there is no import health standard for used beekeeping for consultation in March 2004. equipment. Kerry Mulqueen, The amended is dated 11 May 2004 and replaces that dated National Adviser, 26 September 2002. Animal Imports and Exports, phone 04 498 9624, fax 04 474 4132, [email protected] www.maf.govt.nz/animal-imports

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 23 Codes of ethical conduct – approvals, Draft Documents for Consultation – Breadfruit notifications and revocations since the last (Artocarpus altilis) from Samoa issue of Biosecurity As part of the consultative process in the development of the import health standards for fresh breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) All organisations involved in the use of live animals for from Samoa, MAF has distributed the following draft documents research, testing or teaching are required to adhere to an for public consultation and comment: approved code of ethical conduct. Draft Import Health Standard Codes of ethical conduct approved: Nil Datasheets for regulated pests Transfers of code of ethical conduct approved: Nil PRA spreadsheet Amendments to codes of ethical conduct approved: Nil These documents are available on MAF’s website: Notifications to MAF of minor amendments to codes of ethical www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/consultation/ conduct: Nil Comments on these draft documents should be forwarded to Notifications to MAF of arrangements to use an existing code of MAF by close of business on 8 June 2004. MAF encourages ethical conduct: respondents to forward comments electronically to the • Animal Breeding Services Ltd (to use AgResearch Ltd’s code and Ruakura AEC) email address below. However, should you wish to forward submissions in writing, please send them to the address Codes of ethical conduct revoked or expired or arrangements that follows: terminated: Nil Plant Imports – Consultation on breadfruit, Plants Biosecurity, Approvals by the Director-General of MAF for the use of non-human MAF Biosecurity Authority, hominids: Nil PO Box 2526, Wellington, New Zealand, Approvals by the Minister of Agriculture of research or testing in phone +64 4 498 9843, fax +64 4 474 4257, the national interest: Nil [email protected] Linda Carsons, Senior Policy Adviser, Animal Welfare, Entry conditions for Actinidia nursery stock phone 04 470 2746, fax 04 498 9888, and seed for sowing [email protected] The import health schedules of entry conditions for Actinidia Draft import health standards for nursery stock and seed for sowing were amended in May 2004. consultation – Plants The new requirements can now be found in the revised version of MAF’s import health standards Import requirements for nursery stock – Insecticide, miticide and fungicide treatments 155.02.05 Importation of seed for sowing As part of the consultative process in the revision of the www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/imports/plants/standards/155-02-05.pdf mandatory fungicide, insecticide and miticide treatments 155.02.06 Importation of nursery stock required for nursery stock imported into New Zealand, MAF has www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/imports/plants/standards/155-02-06.pdf distributed the following draft document for public consultation The analysis of submissions made during consultation is and comment: available on: Import requirements for nursery stock – Insecticide, miticide and www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/consultation/

fungicide treatments Plant Imports, Plants Biosecurity, MAF Biosecurity Authority, The document is available on MAF’s website: PO Box 2526, Wellington, New Zealand, www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/consultation/ phone +64 4 498 9843, fax +64 4 474 4257, Comments on these draft documents should be forwarded to [email protected] MAF by close of business on 11 June 2004. Depending on the Changes to import permit requirements results of consultation, it is anticipated that the new for the importation of grains and seeds for requirements will be in place by July 2004. MAF encourages processing and consumption respondents to forward comments electronically to the email address below. However, should you wish to forward In March 2004 MAF Plants Biosecurity reviewed the import submissions in writing, please send them to the address requirements for grains and seeds for consumption or that follows: processing as held in MAF Import Health Standard Plant Imports – Consultation on Nursery Stock Treatments, PIT-GFP-PHR: Plants Biosecurity, MAF Biosecurity Authority, www.maf.govt.nz/seeds-processing-consumption.htm PO Box 2526, This review identified that some minor changes were required Wellington, New Zealand, to generic import requirements for grains and seeds for phone +64 4 498 9843, fax +64 4 474 4257, consumption or processing. Importers are currently required to [email protected] obtain import permits for all grains/seeds other than for those

24 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 consignments that are imported and heat treated on arrival at grains/seeds that receive biosecurity clearance at the border the New Zealand border. Currently MAF Plants Biosecurity uses after meeting all import requirements and passing inspection. the import permit system for import management and to collect As these changes to the PIT-GFP-PHR standard were data on the volume of imports and monitor the identity of considered to be trade facilitative and of a minor nature, they importers. However, the use of improved databases by MAF were implemented immediately on 25 May 2004 with Quarantine Service has improved data gathering ability (by notification being provided to the international community and volume, origin and importer) to such an extent that it was stakeholders at that time. concluded that the requirement for importers to obtain import Dr Dave Nendick, National Adviser – Grain for Processing, permits for some consignments was unnecessary. Plants Biosecurity, MAF Biosecurity Authority, Import permits are now only required for those consignments of PO Box 2526, grains/seeds (imported under one of several import options) for Wellington, New Zealand, viable seeds that are directed to MAF-approved transitional phone +64 4 474 4200, facilities for processing or further treatment. Importers are no fax +64 4 474 4257, longer required to obtain an import permit for consignments of [email protected]

New organism records: 29/03/04 – 14/05/04

Biosecurity is about managing risks – protecting the New Zealand environment and economy from exotic pests and diseases. MAF Biosecurity Authority 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 organisms that have become established, new hosts for existing pests and extension to distribution for existing pests. The information was collated by MAF Forest Biosecurity and MAF Plants Biosecurity during 29/03/04 – 14/05/04, and held in the Plant Pest Information Network (PPIN) database. Wherever possible, common names have been included.

ANIMALS BIOSECURITY RECORDS 29/03/2004 – 14/05/2004 Validated new to New Zealand reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment Pheidole proxima Under stone in backyard Hawke’s Bay NPPRL A predator and granivore currently only known from Queensland, (bigheaded ant) Australia. Numerous specimens were collected during the red imported fire ant response from the Port of Napier and from residential properties within a 500 metre radius of the red imported fire ant nest site. Fourteen public submissions were also received from the area, the most distant being from Taradale, approximately 15 kilometres southwest of the port. There are three other Pheidole species already present in New Zealand. The Invasive Ant Technical Advisory Group meeting to be held in late July will be discussing this find. Pison ?ruficorne Window ledge Auckland Landcare Research Described in Queensland, and recorded in Victoria (Australia). All Pison (Sphecid wasp) species are spider predators, and are capable of stinging. The females construct nests that they provision with prey for their offspring. Nesting behaviour varies greatly with most species constructing mud nests either as free standing aerial structures or lines of cell in pre-existing cavities; but some nest in dry sandy soil. Two specimens were collected from a window ledge at the Auckland University – one in March 2001, and the second in December 2003. The query on species identification is due to a minor variation in morphology that may be due to population difference. A modern revision of the species would be required to confirm this. More information is being sought. Sympiesis sericeicornis Phyllonorycter Auckland Landcare Research A polyhagous and hyperparasitoid with over 100 hosts mostly (Eulophid wasp) messaniella lepidopterans, but including coleopterans, dipterans and other (Oak leaf miner) hymenopterans. Overseas S. sericeicornis has been used in the biological control of gracilariid lepidopterans Phyllonorycter crataegella and Phyllonorycter propinquinella. This particular specimen was collected by Landcare Research from an oak leaf miner caterpillar in December 2003. More information is being sought. Cirrospilus vittatus (Diptera: Agromyzidae) Auckland Landcare Research A polyhagous and hyperparasitoid with over 100 hosts including (Eulophid wasp) Indet. indet. dipterans, lepidopterans, coleopterans and other hymenopterans. (Agromyzid fly) Overseas C. vittatus has been used in biological control of lepidopterans Phyllonorycter crataegella and Stigmella malella. This specimen was reared from an agromyzid fly which was collected by Crop & Food Research in June 2002. More information is being sought. Solenopsis invicta Ant bait pots Hawke’s Bay NPPRL A nest of these aggressive, stinging ants was detected at the Port of (red imported fire ant) Napier in February 2004 through MAF’s national invasive ant surveillance programme. (See page 13 of this issue.) The nest was destroyed and an intensive local surveillance and a targeted publicity campaign have resulted in no further finds. Monitoring of the treated site will continue over the winter and surveillance activities will be repeated next summer to confirm eradication success.

Animals records: Amelia Pascoe, Programme Coordinator, Exotic Animal response, Animal Biosecurity, ph 04 470 2785, fax 04 474 4133, [email protected]

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 25 PLANTS BIOSECURITY RECORDS 29/03/2004 – 14/05/2004 Validated new to New Zealand reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment Oziella yucca Yucca elephantipes Auckland National Plant Pest This host-specific mite was detected during MAF’s survey for the mite (mite) (yucca) Reference Library Cecidophyopsis hendersoni. DoC has been informed of this detection. (NPPRL) New host reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment Symmetrischema Capsicum annuum Auckland NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include tomato and pepino. plaesiosema (capsicum, green pepper) (tomato stem borer) Pseudomonas viridiflava Hydrangea sp. Dunedin NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include kiwifruit, grape, cucurbits, tomato, (bacterial rot, blossom (hydrangea) passionfruit, pea, apricot, green bean, onion, nectarine, capsicum, blight, leaf spot) carrot, blueberry, kawakawa, oca, chicory, radish, olive, feverfew, and parsley. Verticillium dahliae Coreopsis verticillata Auckland NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include Prunus spp., cucurbits, aster, aubergine, (verticillium wilt) (thread leaf coreopsis) avocado, bachelor’s button, bean, boronia, broad bean, capsicum, carnation, casana, chrysanthemum, copper beech, grape, kiwifruit, nashi, olive, rose, potato, strawberry, and tomato. Harzia acremonioides Vaccinium ashei Wellington NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include kiwifruit and avocado. (no common name) (blueberry, rabbit eye blueberry) Pseudomonas viridiflava Vaccinium ashei Wellington NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include kiwifruit, grape, cucurbits, tomato, (bacterial rot, blossom (blueberry, rabbit eye passionfruit, pea, Prunus spp., green bean, onion, capsicum, carrot, blight, leaf spot) blueberry) blueberry, oca, kawakawa, chicory, radish, hydrangea, olive and parsley. Fusarium culmorum Medicago sativa Central Otago NPPRL This fungus has a very wide host range. (fusarium leaf spot) (alfalfa, lucerne) Botryosphaeria parva Agave attenuata Northland NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include Citrus spp., avocado, grape, apple, kiwifruit, (botryosphaeria rot) (agave) pear, nashi, Japanese medlar, sweet chestnut, Prunus spp., rhododendron, puka, papaumu, feijoa, blueberry, tamarillo, poplar, and yarrow. Fusarium phyllophilum Dracaena draco Northland NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include Sansevieria trifasciata, petunia and (no common name) (dragon tree) Dracaena sp. Nectria haematococca Cordyline sp. Mid Canterbury NPPRL This fungus has a very wide host range. (dry rot, root rot, stem rot) (cabbage tree, Ti) Coniothyrium Furcraea bedinghousii Northland NPPRL Other PPIN hosts include Yucca sp. concentricum (no common name) (brown leaf spot) Extension to distribution reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment Anisoplaca cosmia Lagunaria patersonii Gisborne Forest Research Other PPIN distributions include Auckland and Hawkes Bay. (Norfolk Island (Norfolk Island hibiscus) hibiscus moth) Cerotelium fici Ficus carica Gisborne Forest Research Forest Research has recorded this fungus from Auckland, Northland (fig rust) (fig) and Waikato.

Plants records: George Gill, Technical Adviser, Pest Management, MAF Plants Biosecurity, phone 04 470 2742, fax 04 474 4257, [email protected]

CODES OF WELFARE – Animal Welfare Act Update The table below is a quick guide as to the status of the various codes of welfare as they are developed under the Animal Welfare Act 1999. Code Status Broiler Code Final code issued by Minister of Agriculture on 26 June 2003 Pig Code Final code presented to Minister of Agriculture on 25 November 2003 Rodeo Code Final code issued by Minister of Agriculture on 4 December 2003 Layer Hen Code Final code presented to Minister of Agriculture on 19 April 2004 Zoo Code Final code to be presented to Minister of Agriculture mid 2004 Circus Code Final code to be presented to Minister of Agriculture mid 2004 Commercial Slaughter Code Public consultation completed. Final code to be presented to Minister of Agriculture last quarter 2004 Wayne Ricketts, Programme Manager Animal Welfare, phone 04 474 4276, fax 04 498 9888, [email protected]

26 Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 FOREST BIOSECURITY RECORDS 29/03/2004 – 14/05/2004 Validated new to New Zealand reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment Stilbospora sp. Ulmus glabra Auckland Forest Research This is first report of this genus from New Zealand. Species of (no common name) (Scotch elm, wych elm) Stilbospora overseas are not known to be pathogenic. New host reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment Uraba lugens Eucalyptus tereticornis Auckland Forest Research This moth has been found on a wide range of Eucalyptus species as well (gum leaf skeletoniser) (forest red gum) as pohutakawa, pin oak, brush cherry, apple gum, scarlet oak and ash. Eucalyptus melliodora (eucalyptus, yellow box) Eucalyptus pulchella (eucalyptus, white peppermint) Eucalyptus gunnii (eucalyptus, cider gum, cider tree) Nambouria xanthops Eucalyptus gunnii Auckland Forest Research This gall forming wasp has been found on a wide range of (no common name) (eucalyptus, cider gum, Eucalyptus species. cider tree) Eucalyptus cypellocarpa (eucalyptus, mountain grey gum) Acrocercops laciniella Angophora cordifolia Auckland Forest Research This moth has been found on a wide range of Eucalyptus species. (black butt leaf miner) (dwarf apple, heart-leaf gym myrtle) Phaeophleospora eucalypti Eucalyptus glaucescens Auckland Forest Research This fungi has been found on a wide range of Eucalyptus species (no common name) (eucalyptus, Tingiringi gum) Cardiaspina fiscella Eucalyptus goniocalyx Auckland Forest Research This psyllid has been found on a wide range of Eucalyptus species. (brown lace lerp) (eucalyptus, long-leaf box) Icerya purchasi Casuarina equisetifolia Northland Forest Research Other PPIN Hosts include orange, rose, lemon, pumpkin, mandarin, (cottony cushion scale) (Bull oak) tangelo, New Zealand grapefruit, cedar elm, Citrus sp., kiwifruit, apple, Malus sp. and tamarillo. Liothula omnivora Quercus velutina Northland Forest Research This polyphagous native moth have been found on a wide range of (bagmoth, case moth, kopi) (Black oak) native and introduced host plants. Planotortrix notophaea Cedrus atlantica cv. Auckland Forest Research Other PPIN hosts include New Zealand grapefruit and white peppermint. (Blacklegged leafroller) glauca (Atlantic cedar, Atlas cedar) Hemiberlesia lataniae Laurelia novae-zelandiae Waikato Forest Research Other PPIN hosts include kiwifruit, titoki, mandarin, sweet orange, (latania scale) (pukatea) apple, rose, Japanese plum, box, grape and Japanese zelkova. Diaspidiotus perniciosus Banksia spinulosa Auckland Forest Research Other PPIN hosts include monkey apple, kiwifruit, New Zealand (San José scale) (banksia) grapefruit, sweet orange, tangelo, Malus sp., apple, hoop pine, European plum, peach, nectarine, Japanese plum, Prunus sp., pear, nashi and grape. Callidiopsis scutellaris Angophora costata (rusty Bay of Plenty Forest Research This Cerambicid has been found on a wide range of Eucalyptus species. (no common name) gum, smooth-barked apple, Sydney red gum) Phloeosinus cupressi Juniperus communis Gisborne Forest Research Other PPIN hosts include hiba, Juniperus flaccida, and white ash. (Cypress bark beetle) (Common juniper) Extension to distribution reports Organism Host Location Submitted by Comment Poropeza dacrydii Podocarpus Northland Forest Research This species has been previously recorded from Auckland, Wellington, (no common name) totara (totara) Nelson, Buller and Fiordland. Coleroa senniana Protea sp. Wellington Forest Research Other PPIN distributions include Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki and (copper leaf) (protea) Wanganui. Pleistodontes froggatti Pittosporum crassifolium Gisborne Forest Research Other PPIN distributions include Auckland, Bay of Plenty and Taranaki. (Moreton Bay fig wasp) (karo) Sawadaea bicornis Alectryon excelsus Bay of Plenty Forest Research This species has been previously recorded from Auckland and Waikato. (powdery mildew) (titoki)

Forest records: Peter Thomson, Director MAF Forest Biosecurity, phone 04 498 9639, fax 04 498 9888, [email protected]

Biosecurity Issue 52 • 15 June 2004 27 Exotic disease and pest emergency hotline: 0800 809 966 Animal welfare complaint hotline: 0800 327 027 www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity