the magazine of the NZBI Autumn 2017

ProtectISSN 1175-043X inside

5 NZBI Contacts 2 Editor’s note: You can lead a horse to water but... 4 6 From the Executive: Vigilance, vigilance, vigilance 4 NZBI news

Myrtle rust: What the NZBI said 5 9 Myrtle rust: the story so far 5 Sector news

News from the Canterbury Branch 6 Canterbury Mini NETS 7 Chinese helper 9 Stoat traps to protect kiwi 10 Briefs 11 NZ joins world agreement to control marine pests 12 7 Enhancing Surveillance capabilities: a Biological Heritage National Science Challenge Project 11

Range of common fungicides banned 12 Predator Free company formed 13 Title about Australian pest control measures 15 Range of common fungicides banned 15 Predator Free company formed 13 10 Samurai wasp v stink bug 16 Book review

Protecting Paradise: 1080 and the fght to save 14 New Zealand’s wildlife 17 15 The Tail Not welcome here: puss ‘n boots 17

16

Working together to ensure New Zealand is protected from the adverse impacts of invasive species Protect Autumn 2017 page 2 NZBI Contacts President &Auckland Immediate Past Rebecca Kemp Canterbury/Westland Groenteman Ronny David Brittain Chris Macann Other Officers Rebecca Kemp Darion Embling Mary Stewart Alice McNatty Sara Moylan Jono Underwood Alfredo Paz Ronny Groenteman Alastair Fairweather John Sanson Seconded Members

Web Manager Protect Editor&Archives Co-ordinator Immediate PastPresident & Auckland President &CentralNorth Island Auckland/Northland Secretary Vice-President &LowerNorthIsland Vice PresidentVice &Top ofTheSouth Otago/Southland Canterbury/Westland Vertebrate Pests secondment Travel/Study Awards Co-ordinator & Ministry forPrimaryIndustries Lower NorthIsland Vice-President & Sara Moylan Otago/Southland Alfredo Paz Co-ordinator Travel/Study Awards Alastair Fairweather Secretary Alice McNatty (09) 3662000 (07) 8590790

021 784933 03 2115412/ 03 3499660 (07) 8580013 (04) 8940836 North Island President &Central Darion Embling Web Manager David Brittain [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] found ontheweb atwww.biosecurity.org.nz The NewZealand BiosecurityInstitutecanbe Top ofTheSouth PresidentVice & Jono Underwood New Zealand Biosecurity John Sanson

Protect Autumn 2017 page 3 Protect Autumn 2017 perhaps lesssafemethods ways mustbefoundtoreplace older page 4 rust hasarrived,means been in common use. This at a time when myrtle year bannedsometoxicfungicideswhichhave The Environmental Protection Agencyhasthis drink”. can leadahorsetowaterbutyoucan’t makeit is needed.Aswehear, it’s aclearcaseof“you campaign ishavinggoodresults butmore effort efforts inCanterburywhere anawareness In thisissuewehearabouton-farmbiosecurity has beenveryimportant. orchard andnursery-gatebiosecurity furiously toprevent itsspread. So had thebiosecuritysectorworking rust, althoughnotunexpectedhas year. Theunwelcomearrivalofmyrtle It’s beenabusytimeforallsofarthis to water but… You can leadahorse which wecanimprove thewayinwhichweoperate. We thank allmembersfortheirsupportandare keentohear ofwaysin ways inwhichwemanageour membershipandfinancialprocesses. The executiveiscontinuingwith itsworkonreviewing thewebsiteand reminded NewZealandersoftheneed tobevigilant. This prompted theexecutivetoproduce apress release inwhichwe organisations’ resources. it, hasconsumedmanyofourmembers’timeand their The arrivalofmyrtlerust,whichlikevelvetleaf before vigilance vigilance Vigilance F E ROM DITOR

TH ’ S N E NZB OT E I E new andinnovative X E CUTIV . E has hada As wellwehearofapossiblenewplantpestemerging inCanterburywhich deliberate attemptatgettinground ourzero toleranceborder biosecurity. biosecurity. Iampleasedtoseethatthere wasnodegree ofleniencyfora We alsohearaboutacheekyyetnot-at-all-funnyattemptbypassborder this andithasnothingtodowithpredation. on pestcontrol research fundingbydevelopingacentre forpestresearch There isalsoanitemabouthowtheAustralianshavethisyearputapriority some degree ofsuccess. We alsohearabouttrainingdogsandbeestosniff outplantpestswith groundwork …happyhunting. Whether you’re outthere doingtheresearch, theplanningor It’s all withinthesepages. which parallelssomeofNewZealand’s recent fundingannouncements. Cats are definitelybadanddogsare good E C DITOR HRIS

M lag timeapproaching almostacentury-and-a-half ACA NN ,

biosecurity sector. documents developmentsacross theentire T It istheofficialpublicationofNZBIand Please continuetosupportProtect Magazine. of biosecurity. thoughts orraiseissuesonallaspects safe placeformemberstovoicetheir H E NZB I E X E It is the only publication which CUTIV E . We hearmore about

C President Darion Embling, OMMITT EE a . Protect Autumn 2017 page 5 As a June 21 this year MPI the total number reported infected of properties with myrtle rust was 52 nationally; 39 in Taranaki, 4 in Northland, 7 in Bay of Plenty and 2 in Waikato. MPI Incident Controller had said there David Yard been no significant change of myrtle to the spread rust, but work continues to the fungus. control properties “The affected include both residences premises and commercial will such as nurseries. We continue to work closely nuka, as well as production plants, nuka, as well as production and m t and are involved wherever possible.” involved wherever and are the public has been from “The response of calls hundreds excellent, and we’ve received said. suspected myrtle rust, Mr Yard to report He encouraged people to keep on the lookout, and not to hesitate in getting in touch if they see something that could be myrtle rust.” including eucalypts and feijoa. with the Department of the Conservation to of myrtle rust and remain the spread control vigilant for any signs of further infections. and Puni Ko¯kiri also working with Te “We’re kept informed that local iwi are DOC to ensure Myrtle rust: the story so far for Primary Industries In early April the Ministry the serious fungal plant (MPI) announced that on Raoul Island, a little disease had been found close for comfort for New Zealand. came when unexpected but not entirely Worse first in early May Myrtle rust was found for the time on the New Zealand mainland. The plant rust which most likely came on-the- plants wind has the potential to seriously affect which includes some of New in the myrtle family, iconic species such as phutukawa, Zealand’s r ”,

,” he said. so we need to

NZBI news NZBI

It’s not going to be easy but we are all into stopping this not going to be easy but we are It’s This stuff spreads like spreads This stuff This pest is a game-changer for NZ This pest is a game-changer for talcum powder “ Mr Embling said anyone in the vicinity of myrtle rust will be the biggest risk. spread knowledge. “Being a pathogen, it can be carried on anything without people’s “Being a pathogen, it can be carried on anything without people’s think you’ve brushed against it or come into contact in any way leave the article on the spot. “Photograph and mark a suspicious site, but don’t touch anything and if you touch anything and if you “Photograph and mark a suspicious site, but don’t be really careful.” be really “ manuka, kanuka or pohutukawa. leaves and stems on plants such as feijoa, bluegum, bottlebrush, or patches with yellow dots on from its website, but in particular its website, but in particular from to look for purple/black splotches He said the best thing to do is guidelines follow the Ministry’s action is vital. involved particularly since early important for all New Zealanders to support the agencies already Primary Industries is leading the on this, but that it was charge Mr Embling said the Ministry for “Now that the pathogen is here I appeal to everyone to be vigilant.” I appeal “Now that the pathogen is here “ “If ever there was a time for all New Zealanders to be vigilant it is now. was a time for all New “If ever there community are on high alert or are now helping with keeping the lid on this on high alert or are community are 4th in Northland. detected on Thursday May outbreak Institute president, Darion Embling said all members of the biosecurity Darion Embling Institute president, NZ Biosecurity Institute. The arrival on the New Zealand mainland of the plant pathogen myrtle rust The arrival on the New Zealand mainland the biosecurity organisation overarching is a call to arms says the country’s statement: In response to the arrival of Myrtle rust in May the NZBI released this media released to the arrival of Myrtle rust in May the NZBI In response NZBI said Myrtle rust: What the and eucalypts. manuka, kanuka and ramarama – as well as exotic myrtles like feijoa, guava Myrtle rust affects plants from the Myrtacae plant family. This includes the Myrtacae plant family. plants from Myrtle rust affects plants – rata, pohutukawa, most iconic indigenous some of New Zealand’s he said. Protect Autumn 2017 page 6 Looking atSumner biosecurity examplesinthefield. keep updatedonbiosecurityissuesandtosee it asanopportunityforlocalnetworking,to continue theCanterburyMETS.Theysaw the eventin2015,thattheywouldliketo received from membersandattendeesof We organised thisMETSduetofeedback Treasurer. the BranchChairandLaurence Smithremains at thesametime.GemmaLivingstoneremains The NZBICanterburyBranchAGMwasheld the primeorganiser andfunderoftheevent. from aseniorlevelatEnvironment Canterbury, It wasgreat toseesuchaturn-outparticularly attended two-dayminiNETS(METs) inApril. The CanterburyBranchofNZBIheldawell- drinks andconversation. us alltoshare wonderfulwildfoods, generosity kindlyopened hishomefor walkway. KeithBriden,withhisusual Park andalongtheassociatedcoastal look attheirplantingsNicholson on thePortHills,January29,to members gathered aboveSumner A group ofCanterbury branch Branch theCanterbury from days:News coupleof a great outand A pleasantafternoon NZBI news The wellattendedMETS wasenjoyedbyall. C G appreciated thosethatputtheirnameforward totalk. and experiencesinthebiosecuritybiodiversitydomain.We really METS speakersgenerousl;y givingtheirtimetoshare theirknowledge time toorganise theevent.Agreat lineupwaspossibleduetoallthe Canterbury Branch(HannahEastgate,Laurence Smithandmyself)the Canterbury financially, andforallowingtheirstaff involvedwiththe This 2017METSwasmadepossiblebythegenerosity ofEnvironment A great familyouting. A E N MMA T E R L B URY IVI NG /W STO E ST NE L A

N D B RA N CH

C HAIR Protect Autumn 2017 page 7 Landcare Research Research Landcare to alerted all present the possibility of a new plant pest Chilean mayten introduced to the Christchurch from Botanic Gardens 140 overseas around Murray Dawson from Murray Dawson from ” Grant Purves and Wayne Chittock Wayne Grant Purves and they do at Lyttleton explain the work Port and elsewhere. establishing. gave an account AgResearch Mark McNeill from soil risks at the of lessons learned regarding with a comparison of risks associated border For bacteria and with footwear with sea freight. years ago but which is becoming persistent years ago but which is becoming persistent suckers. because of the difficulty of removing he Simply cutting them down is not a solution, said. Philip Hulme emphasised the importance of understanding pathways and their or at connectedness as a way of preventing of pests to other parts lease delaying the spread of the country. explained some of the biodiversity ECan staff in Canterbury including plans for projects and plans areas red-zoned Christchurch’s as well as park along the river, for a forest in Kaikoura and on the projects revegetation Port Hills, especially in the wake of the Port afoot for planting plans are where Hills fire re- plants to stop gorse from fast-growing Short gem sessions featured items about featured Short gem sessions and aerial classification of sensing remote in Canterbury; screening plants; phytopthora changing tourism habits as a tool for analysing risks and biosecurity of spread; threats lake users. connected with recreational LINZ representing Miskell) Girvan (Boffa Marcus account of lagorosiphon gave an interesting lakes using mats of in the Waitaki control and its of success, hessian with varying degrees potential.

The secret The secret water now we need to make it drink ~Bob Douglas We’ve got the horse to “

” he said. He said Douglas fir was far worse than gorse

NZBI news NZBI

is to get in early, ECan’s Steve Palmer gave some graphic examples of wilding pine Steve Palmer gave some graphic ECan’s 30c - $2000 per ha. “ infestation levels, with costs ranging from horse to water now we need to make it drink”. country policy adviser Bob Douglas said it was a case of “we’ve got the of Chilean Needle Grass. They said awareness had increased but had not had increased of Chilean Needle Grass. They said awareness yet translated to significant behavioural change. Federated Farmers high Laurence Smith and his team from ECan explained on-farm biosecurity ECan explained on-farm biosecurity Smith and his team from Laurence the spread especially at the farm gate, with a focus on preventing measures, 147421animals. August last year he said there were 9513 stock movements involving 9513 stock movements involving were August last year he said there The group heard from OSPRI’s Danny Templeman about the continuing Danny Templeman OSPRI’s from heard The group despite successes. In just one week in challenge of keeping TB at bay, resistance to new and emerging technology, particularly in the Maori world. technology, to new and emerging resistance Melanie Shadbolt from the Maori Biosecurity Network emphasised that Melanie Shadbolt from is straight is a lack of knowledge about a subject there there where the threat of myrtle rust and the brown marmorated stink bug. of myrtle rust and the brown the threat worked, and Andrew Sanders explained the Biosecurity Capability Network Sanders explained worked, and Andrew particularly acknowledged Andrew 55,000 people. which involves around Industry Agreements were changing the way MPI were Industry Agreements From MPI Graham Burnip explained how General MPI Graham Burnip explained From the case 20 years ago when the present strain was the case 20 years ago when the present illegally. released biological timeframe. He shared his concern of the his biological timeframe. He shared such as was virus introduction danger of a rogue been delayed 12 months because of the missed been delayed 12 months because of the strain of RHD. “It certainly has been a significant strain of RHD. “It certainly has been a significant has piece of work”. Graham said its introduction group up-to-date with progress on the planned introduction of the new K5 on the planned introduction up-to-date with progress group on the success of strategic partnerships which are working well in the region working well in the region which are on the success of strategic partnerships the He also brought conifer control. especially notably in the case of wilding Environment Canterbury’s Biosecurity Leader Graham Sullivan commented Biosecurity Leader Graham Sullivan commented Canterbury’s Environment It was great to see such a turn-out particularly from a senior level at particularly from to see such a turn-out It was great funder of the event. and the prime organiser Canterbury, Environment knowledge sharing. and summarises two well-supported days of meaningful and summarises two well-supported mini NETS in April. Chris Macann shares his thoughts, his thoughts, Chris Macann shares mini NETS in April. The Canterbury Branch of NZBI held a well-attended Branch of NZBI held a well-attended The Canterbury Canterbury Mini NETS

and so little time: and so So much ofSo much interest and broom in Canterbury. and broom Protect Autumn 2017 not insurmountable tracking themwillbeachallengebut risk wasgreater. nematodes andseedsthefootwear page 8 the samepurpose.Shesaid Mas describedherattemptstotrainbeesfor possibly missit.From PlantandFoodFlore far withfindingvelvetleafwhere humanscould bees. FionaThomsondescribedhersuccessso solutions tosniffingoutweedsbydogsand Of novelinterest were sessionsoninnovative technology. data collectionandmappingusingemerging thoughts ontheenormousopportunitiesfor entertaining picture ofthefuture, withhis Ian Campionfrom ECanpaintedavividand Insects theriskswere similar, but continued public goodpestinitiativeswas awkward to some ofthelegislationinthis respect involving agreeing theyare apest.Thegroup noted to beaproblem inpockets,withnoteverybody of theissuesonpeninsula.Goatscontinue Hunter gave his account and wellnamed,Dave Peninsula pest operator, Longtime Banks control. challenges ofspartina of thesuccessand Ian Hankin(DOC)spoke man’s beard control and cooperation onold spoke about community Rich Langley(ECan) visits toindoors. some oftheoutdoor fires. Rainconfined Christchurch’s February area damagedby passed through an The fieldtrip . Graham Sullivan. for herbackyard, withhelpfrom Conservation Trust shares herpassion Marie Haleyfrom BanksPeninsula corralling and for fungi, Canterbury Branch. and resources ofECanwhichcontinuestobea generous supporterofthe Such asignificantlocalMETS was onlypossiblebecauseofthestaff time oft’ discussedwastheunintendedarrivalofvelvetleaf. following-up afterriskgoodsgetpasttheport.Amostrecent exampleand in front ofthecontainercleaningarea atLyttleton. It allhappenshere asWayne Chittockshares hisenthusiasm work oftheBanksPeninsulaConservationTrust. Aswellasbeingherhome, Life-long Peninsularesident MarieHaleyshared herenthusiasmforthe possums nowthatTbisnolongerathreat inthearea. control programme paidforintargeted ratesprimarilyforcontrolling work with.Thepeninsulahasaverysuccessfulcommunityinitiatedpest the workofMPI’s biosecuritystaff onthespotinaverybusyworking hosts GrantPurvesandWayne Chittockwasarare opportunitytosee The visittoLyttleton Port’s biosecurityfacilities withMPIportbiosecurity protected from predators. Marie’s passionwasinfectious. the peninsulaishometoanumberofpenguincolonieswhichneedbe good faithtobeintheirconsignments only abletodeclare whattheybelievein After-all manyofthosethere present are involvedin have feltalittleontrialwiththeprobing questions. transitional facilitieswasofvalue.Themenmust about theprocess bywhichriskgoodsgo tosecure idea ofthesheermagnitudetask.Learning efficiency. Thesitevisitalsogavevisitorsagood place, andthefinebalancewithworkingport consignments enteringportsandthechecksin It wasvaluabletoseethestrictcontrols onrisk to declare it,whereas attheport what theyhaveintheirbaggageandsoare able airport biosecuriityisthatpassengersknow there are. Akeydifference between seaportand procedures andseeonsitejustwhatfacilities opportunity todiscussborder biosecurity In whatformewasahighlight,there wasan environment. importers are . Protect Autumn 2017 page 9 or eradicate privet, but it is bug release will not bug release or go in search of more.” or go in search the through Privet lace bugs have been approved first Agency and were Protection Environmental in 2015. released Holly said that the replace pesticides replace another tool in the toolbox. Biosecurity officers will follow-up to check for telltale signs of privet lace bug damage. site for the bug release Birkenhead is the third in Auckland behind the Hunua Ranges south of Auckland and Mt Richmond in south Auckland.

years. only going to target that these guys are is a lot of science to prove “There they will either die privet in the area, is no Chinese Chinese privet. If there Chinese lace bugs may stem the spread of the plant pest spread Chinese lace bugs may stem the privet. of privet lace bugs over eight the effects has researched Research, Landcare

If these ”, she said.

Sector news Sector

will become less common guys do their job, the Chinese privet guys do their job, the Chinese privet volunteers. Kaipatiki Project Environment Centre and Pest Free Kaipatiki Free and Pest Centre Environment Kaipatiki Project Cox, far right, were joined by Kaipatiki Local Board members, joined by Kaipatiki Local Board Cox, far right, were Council biosecurity officers Mary Stewart, far left, and Holly which means the damaged plants are unable to which means the damaged plants are the food they need to survive. create Chinese lace bugs suck the goodness out of Chinese lace bugs suck the goodness out the leaves that help the plant photosynthesise, that.” and kill the plants. These guys help us with and kill the plants. These guys help us with employees. to go out there have the resources don’t “We by ourselves, so we need to recruit smaller by ourselves, so we need to recruit Senior regional biosecurity advisor Holly Cox biosecurity advisor Senior regional all tackle the privet problem said we can’t Memorial Park at the end of January. Memorial Park at the end of January. The Auckland Council biosecurity team released released The Auckland Council biosecurity team War 500 privet lace bugs in Birkenhead around plant privet. of stemming the spread of the pest of the pest of stemming the spread Auckland’s North Shore with the goal with the North Shore Auckland’s A Chinese insect has been released on has been released A Chinese insect Chinese helper Chinese Protect Autumn 2017 page 10 Zealandia andKapitiIsland. provide anetworkofprotection alongside Wellington –asafehavenintheRimutakawill Native birds suchaskakaare expandingfrom protection ofsomeamazingspecies.” wide predator control and hugegainsinthe the springboard tothenextstageofcatchment- “The collaborationwithMoaonthisproject is the parkfornearly30years. Rimutaka Forest ParkTrust whichhasworkedin themselves,” saidMelodyMclaughlinfrom, the chickswhentheyare bigenoughtodefend eggs, hatchthemsafelyelsewhere andreturn the predicted masteventwehavehadto collect – andtheprotection forkiwi.Thisyeardue to “We are thrilledtobegrowing thetrapnetwork expand theirmandate. country eastofWellington andare keento 90 kilometres oftraplinesintheruggedhill Conservation Trust memberscurrently check Rimutaka Forest ParkTrust andMoa the Predator Free 2050community-ledprojects. Department ofConservationandcontributeto The self-resetting trapshavebeenfundedby year. valleys whichwelcomeover30,000visitorsa the popularCatchpoolandOrongorongo safe-zone forkiwito7,000ha.Thearea crosses control scheme,more thandoublingthecurrent Volunteer groups willmanagethenewpredator Park. trapswere installedinRimutakaForest In lateJanuary, 1,200newstoat kiwi protect to Stoat traps “ Sector news Innovation iscriticalin ~ MaggieBarry, MinisterofConservation predators. ridding NewZealandof ”

of predators monthly tosix-monthlychecks pump outfresh lure, reducing workforvolunteers from The 1,200newtrapsautomaticallyreset aftereachkilland Park. install thefirstof1,200newstoattrapsinRimutakaForest Minister ofConservationMaggieBarryandMPChrisBishop future islookingbright.” Wellington RegionalCouncil,OSPRIandPredator Free Wellington the Through activecollaborationwithRimutakaForest ParkTrust, DOC, Greater “ Wellington andWairarapa,” MrMcNaughtsaid. vision –acontinuouspredator control networkfrom coasttoacross “This newnetworkisasteptowards the‘Predator Free SouthoftheNorth’ aspirations. groups offriendsin2014andJamie McNaughtsaidtheyshare DOC’s Moa ConservationTrust, apartnerinthetrapproject, wasformedbya breakthrough techniques tomakePredator Free 2050areality. Minister Barrysaid Moa isnewonthescene butwe’re arrived attherighttime and theGovernmentisfocusingondeveloping innovation iscriticalinriddingNewZealand . . Protect Autumn 2017 page 11 bring in,” says Andrew Spelman, MPI bring in,” says Andrew Clearance Services Manager, Border Central and South. The suitcase included oranges, apples, avocados, sweet potato and carrots. again to Australia once assurances had been formalised in writing. smugglerFruit sent home An American traveller had her Easter visit to New Zealand cut short when a suitcase she failed to declare packed with fruit and vegetables to biosecurity officers. Christchurch Ministry for Primary Industries staff detected the goods during x-ray bag after of the passenger’s screening Sydney on she arrived on a flight from morning. Saturday to Sydney to return She was forced the same day on the next available to flight after the matter was referred Immigration New Zealand. The passenger admitted she was deliberately trying to smuggle the food into New Zealand. When asked want to cause she said didn’t why, delays for her travelling companions what she could sure and she wasn’t Overzealous over the the over Overzealous Tasman officials biosecurity In May Australian native important destroyed accidently New Zealand plant specimens from among Research, loaned by Landcare as of special them a lichen classified scientific value. in Central Otago The lichen, collected as regarded in the 1930s, was originally to New Zealand, an endemic species specimens had similar but recently been found in Australia. taxon find out if the Australian To Research’s was the same, Landcare to loan its Allan Herbarium agreed based at specimens to researchers the Australian National Herbarium in Canberra. Australia gave an undertaking that all safely herbarium specimens will future control. border transit through said it would loan specimens Landcare

70,000ha.” significant’ plant species and a range land and water-based of threatened snails and species, including birds, fish.” freshwater than 50 is one of more Tangihua council has CPCA the regional established over the past decade in parts of Northland that the region’s communities have identified as worth protecting. involve more Collectively these already than than 1000 people and cover more mice and mustelids, as well as wild ginger and kauri dieback disease of using a variety will all be targeted controls. range lies Forest The Tangihua and Dargaville between Whangarei public of area and includes a large by the conservation land administered Department of Conservation (DOC), its periphery. with private land around habitat for at least three “It provides and 22 ‘regionally ‘threatened’ between Whangarei and Dargaville and Dargaville between Whangarei known as as an area will be targeted ranks of Northland’s joins the Tangihua Areas Control official Community Pest (CPCA). biodiversity to restore aims The project the surrounding values on private land Tangihua adjacent publically-owned and support and enhance Forest community-led conservation efforts there Possums, wild pigs and cats, rats and More pests targeted in Northland animal pests scattered Plant and 1400 hectares than more through and farmland of iconic bush, scrub

Briefs

passengers of the importance of declaring items. Zealand, raising awareness with Zealand, raising awareness featuring ‘Officer Goodboy’ is now playing on 16 airlines entering New An animated biosecurity video who have funded the physical redevelopment. in partnership with Auckland Airport the international airport. The changes have been developed machine, bringing the total to seven at on duty at the same time covering all lanes; and an additional baggage x-ray processed; two detector dog teams processed; and Australian travellers with no and declarations to be screened The changes include: a new dedicated biosecurity lane for New Zealand year Minister Nathan Guy at the end of last processing at Auckland Airport were were at Auckland Airport processing welcomed by Primary Industries New improvements to biosecurity to biosecurity New improvements improvements at at improvements AirportAuckland Biosecurity ports. operate at New Zealand airports and Sixty biosecurity detector dog teams If the new puppies pass their training, they will start work in 2018. they are born. they are Haze, Harley and Hunter. The litters are The litters are Haze, Harley and Hunter. traditionally named alphabetically as The names are Hattie, Halo, Huia, The names are training as biosecurity sniffers. training as biosecurity foster families who will help look after foster families who will they start formal the dogs before were named at a ceremony in January at a ceremony named were got to meet the the puppies where year from a beagle and a harrier hound a beagle year from The six puppies born in November last The six puppies born named its first litter of a super breed of breed first litter of a super named its puppies. biosecurity detector The Ministry for Primary Industries has for Primary Industries The Ministry Super biosecurity Super biosecurity named puppies Protect Autumn 2017 biofouling mandatory inMay2018 in NewZealandmusthaveaclean hull.Theserequirements willbecome New Zealandhasnewruleson biofouling,stipulatingthatallvesselsarriving New Zealandwaters, While ballastwaterisonemeansofharmfulmarinespecies entering water managementbecomesroutine forships. water before discharging it.Thiswillimprove globalcomplianceasballast vessels touseaballastwatermanagementsystemtreat theirballast water requirements withaninternationalstandard, ultimatelyrequiring all Once inforce, theConventionwillreplace NewZealand’s existingballast organisms. exchanged withmid-oceanwater, orotherwisetreated tokillorremove Currently whenvesselsenterNewZealand,ballastwatermusthavebeen diseases canbechallengingandcostly.” marine farmingandfishing.Managingestablishedpests impact thosethatderiveanincomefrom thesea–forexample,tourism, “These organisms canthreaten ourmarineenvironment andspecies and Bell says. page 12 water tobalancetheirload. “On arrivalinportandwhentakingoncargo, shipsdischarge ballast their ballast. can beintroduced intonewlocationswhenshipsdischarge plants andanimals,whichare carriedacross theglobeand voyage, cancontainmillionsofaquaticormarinemicrobes, Ballast water, whichhelpsshipsmaintainstabilityduringa prevent thespread ofharmfulmarinespecies. this year, willrequire shipsgloballytomanagetheirballastwater, helpingto Andrew Bell,saidtheConvention,whichbecomesforceful inSeptember Ministry forPrimaryIndustriesManagerofBorder andBiosecuritySystems, Convention. Zealand the54thcountrytobepartyBallastWater Management General oftheInternationalMaritimeOrganization (IMO),makingNew Smith, earlierthisyearpresented theformalpaperworktoSecretary- New Zealand’s HighCommissionertotheUnitedKingdom,Lockwood management ofships’ballastwater. a step,formallyjoininganinternationalagreement onthe New Zealandhastakenitsfightagainstmarinepestsup marine pests tocontrol agreement NZ joinsworld environment canalsorelease unwanted marinespecies Sector news –marinelifegrowing onvesselhulls. the majorityofintroductions are through Releasing thiswaterintoanew ,” Dr only. commercial operatorsinaworkplacesetting can beusedonlybytrainedandcertified controls wereTighter addedsothatproducts perhaps others. Fungus andMildewSpray Black SpotandFungusSpray The newtightercontrols willeffect: Eliminator. Greenguard ornamental crops andturf. to control fungalleafdiseasesinvegetables, spectrum pesticidechlorothalonil, whichisused All are products whichcontainthebroad- operators inworkplacesettingsonly. to trainedandcertifiedcommercial controls onothers, confiningtheiruse by gardeners, and introduced tighter of fungicidescommonlyusedinNZ Authority (EPA) hasbannedarange The Environmental Protection fungicides banned common Range of “ controls onitsuseinadomesticsetting. risks thatcouldnotbemitigatedbyimposing found there were unacceptablehumanhealth of chlorothalonil-based onnewevidencewhich EPA chiefAllanFreeth initiatedareassessment and manufactured orimportedintoNewZealand, possibly otherscan,sinceMay11,nolongerbe The decisionmeansthatthefollowingproducts, said. November thisyear: as asuspectedcarcinogen especially ifinhaled,andisclassified Chlorothalonil isacutelytoxic, will bebannedfrom salefrom 11 , Yates Guardall

Yates Bravo , T and aratek 5F , Watkins ” DrFreeth Tui Disease McGregor’s , Yates , and Protect Autumn 2017 ti page 13

ti Poroua.

Chair of Taranaki Regional Council, a Director for Regional Council, a Director Chair of Taranaki Chair of the Predator Free NZ Trust,has extensive extensive NZ Trust,has Free Chair of the Predator ori Authorities. Chair of New Zealand Conservation Authority, Chair of New Zealand Conservation Authority, Chief Executive of Ngai Tahu’s Runanga, with Chief Executive of Ngai Tahu’s Chair of Landcorp Farming Ltd and of W3 Wool W3 Wool Chair of Landcorp Farming Ltd and of ti Ruanui / Ngai Tahu / Ng ti Ruanui / Ngai Tahu relationships. Chair of NEXT Foundation, has links with national Chair of NEXT Foundation, has links with Chair of Landcare Research Ltd and Chair of NZ Post, Research Chair of Landcare Chair of OSPRI, has governance experience in both Chair of OSPRI, has governance experience Brings practical experience of pest management, Brings practical experience of pest management, understanding of the predator free goal. He is a successful free understanding of the predator Chair of Xero. and is currently entrepreneur Grant Jeff to the agriculture public and private sectors and is also connected and tourism sectors. Gary Lane making. He has built investment decision alongside related course and golf Wairakei the his own sanctuary fence around Sanctuary. Houpapa Traci Partnership. She is also Chair of the Unleashed Primary Growth Federation of M Parker Warren with Research and former chief executive of SCION and Landcare and science, industry and science and conservation credentials, conservation David MacLeod Fonterra and PKW Farms; a businessman with connections to Ng Mutunga / Ng Arihia Bennett connections to iwi. strong Predator Free 2050 Ltd board Free Predator Jane Taylor and an understanding has extensive public governance experience of science investment. Sir Rob Fenwick of conservation business experience, and an understanding networks and of science investment. Chris Liddell has a comprehensive and and international philanthropists

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both a scientific challenge and also a social challenge.” Gordon, commented that: “The challenge of Gordon, by 2050 is New Zealand being predator-free Landcare Research chief executive, Richard chief executive, Richard Research Landcare appointed as chair of the nine-member Board. appointed as chair of the nine-member Board. Landcare Research chair Jane Taylor has been chair Jane Taylor Research Landcare regional-scale projects across public and private across projects regional-scale land. Since the announcement in July, DOC and Since the announcement in July, and potential councils have identified 90 current than $3 billion through to 2050. than $3 billion through programme of investment estimated at more of investment estimated at more programme spent on predator control with the additional control spent on predator in a central and leveraged funding will result Combining the current $70 million a year Combining the current and philanthropists of approximately $10 million of approximately and philanthropists per year. contributions from business, local government contributions from eradication projects and break-through and break-through eradication projects science. It is expected to leverage additional $6 million per year of new government funding $6 million per year of new government significant predator to invest in regionally The company known as PF2050 Ltd will receive receive The company known as PF2050 Ltd will Zealand by 2050. July 2017, when the Government committed to July 2017, when the Government committed New eradicating rats, stoats and possums from Formation of the company was signalled in Formation of the company was signalled we needed to achieve predator free status,” the free we needed to achieve predator minister said. projects and the breakthrough science solutions and the breakthrough projects “Their role will be to direct investment into will be to direct “Their role eradication significant predator regionally Predator Free 2050 programme. 2050 programme. Free Predator Conservation Minister Maggie Barry said the Conservation Minister Maggie Barry said of the company will be integral to the success formed in December 2017. Predator Free 2050 ambition was Free Predator player in achieving New Zealand’s New Zealand’s player in achieving The company which will be a key The company which company formedcompany Predator Free Free Predator Protect Autumn 2017 page 14 RHDV1 virusthatalready widespread inNew RHDV1 K5isaKorean strainoftheexisting current strainofRHDVislesseffective,” hesaid. will beimproved knockdowninareas where the figures are unknown,itisexpectedthatthere for pestrabbitsinNewZealand.“Whileexact a potentiallysignificantbiologicalcontrol tool Regional LeaderBiosecurity, saidRHDV1K5is Graham Sullivan,Environment Canterbury planned betweenMarch andJune2017. Australia. TheAustralianrelease ofRHDV1K5is already beenapproved forregistration in The newvariant,knownasRHDV1K5,has disease. variant ofrabbithaemorrhagic ordinating group torelease anew permission onbehalfofaco- in Februarythatitwillbeseeking Environment Canterbury announced biocontrol improved rabbit Application for approvals processes forRHDV1K5.RCG Group (RCG)isco-ordinating the The NewZealandRabbitCoordination Background • • • K5 inNewZealand: to register, importandrelease RHDV1 Three statutoryapprovals are required approvals onbehalfoftheRCG. Canterbury istheapplicantfor Information NewZealand.Environment Ministry forPrimaryIndustriesandLand the DepartmentofConservation, and district councils, Federated Farmers, includes representatives from regional

Sector news Biosecurity Act (BSA). under sections52and53the An unwantedorganism permission Act (ACVM) Compounds andVeterinary Medicines Registration undertheAgricultural Organisms Act(HSNO)approval A Hazardous SubstancesandNew This hasnowbeenputbackby likely tobemostfavourable. and alsowhenbiologicalconditionsare the proposed Australianrelease timing release inMay/June2017toalignwith relevant approvals wastargeted towards The programme forsecuringthe monitored. can beappropriately managedand made availableandthattherelease commercially prepared product canbe will alsoensure thatahigherquality Completing theapprovals process or uncontrolled releases. will minimisetheriskofpotentialillegal benefits ofthebiologicalcontrol and release isimportanttofullyrealising the Completing theapproval process before biological timeframe. 12 monthsbecauseofthemissed risks associatedwithRHDV.” vaccine willbeeffective againstthenewstrain.There are nohumanhealth pet rabbitsandtheMinistryforPrimaryIndustrieswillconfirmthatthis and helpslowtheincrease inrabbitnumbers.There isavaccinetoprotect “RHDV1 K5isexpectedtoboosttheeffects oftheexistingRHDV1strain European rabbitandnootherspecies,”hesaid. to oldvirus.“RHDV1K5,likeotherRHDV1variants,onlyinfectsthe Replacing theexistingviruswithanewstrainmayhelpovercome resistance Zealand,” MrSullivansaid. naturally occursintheferalrabbitpopulationsbothAustraliaandNew overcome theprotective effects ofthebenigncalicivirus(RCA-A1)which Zealand. “Itwasselectedforrelease inAustraliabecauseitcanbetter controlling pestrabbitsisrequired.” Graham Sullivanconcluded.“Along-term,integratedapproach to “RHDV1 K5isnotthesilverbulletforrabbiteradicationinNewZealand,” said. success andmaximisebenefitstofarmerstheenvironment,” MrSullivan managed andmonitored. “Thisapproach willincrease thelikelihood of product ismadeavailableandthattherelease canbeappropriately A controlled release willensure thatahigherqualitycommercially prepared research. to measure impacts andinformfuture include pre andpostrelease monitoring prone areas. The strategywillalso effectively release RHDV1K5inrabbit- regional anddistrictcouncilsto RHDV1-K5. Thiswillhelpparticipating to prepare arelease strategyfor Sustainable FarmingFundproject in parallelwithaLandcare Research The approvals process isbeingrun month (February2017). approvals are duetobesubmittedthis applications fortheACVMandBSA currently beingprocessed. Therequired (EPA) inSeptember2016andis the Environmental Protection Authority A HSNOapplicationwassubmittedto Protect Autumn 2017 page 15 then a This will have huge benefits for all and more information about the centre’s current current information about the centre’s and more can be found at www.invasives.com.au progress easy to access digital tools launched to assist easy to access digital tools launched to land managers with monitoring pest animals on their land, and enhance education and knowledge on best practice pest animal management. strong achieved through “Such outcomes are our collaboration and innovation through government and research network of industry, partners. national and collaborative proven “Our strong, in invasive international leadership emerging to maintain species is needed into the future, the solutions momentum established by the IA CRC. “This is a very exciting time in land investment management and the Government’s will see benefits for all Australians, the and to agricultural productivity,” environment Ms Cathles said. for Invasive Species Solutions will be The Centre innovative solutions for dedicated to creating tackling our billion-dollar pest animal and weed and will benefit all Australians. problem will begin on July 1, this year The new centre Australians and our economy. “Along with new tools, our innovative research new and have seen and extension programs new strain of rabbit calicivirus was new strain of rabbit calicivirus was nationally with community released involvement at over 550 sites around Australia. “Just over the past twelve months, research twelve months, research “Just over the past new pest control investment has seen was the first there tools hit the farm gate, toxin new complementary feral predator in 50 years being available, and and have laid some

we have seen some audacious goals we have seen some audacious goals

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achieved in invasive animal management achieved in invasive animal management “Over the past decade, passion to tackle this important national problem. passion to tackle this important national welcome the Government’s announcement and applaud the Minister’s announcement and applaud the Minister’s welcome the Government’s Helen Cathles, Chair of Invasive Animals Limited said that these are Limited said that these are Helen Cathles, Chair of Invasive Animals and I the best of our work forward exciting times as we take extremely agencies. national problems, and continue to maintain strong collaborations between to maintain strong and continue national problems, industry and research the Australian and state and territory governments’, providing solutions to some of Australia’s most challenging and complex Australia’s solutions to some of providing The new research centre will build on the success of the Invasive Animals centre The new research of (IA CRC) decade long track record Centre’s Cooperative Research centre, called the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions. for called the Centre centre, Earlier this year the Australian government announced $20 million dollars Earlier this year the Australian government a new invasive species research of Australian Government funding towards momentum. species research centre to maintain their pest control to maintain their pest control centre species research their pest control measures with the setting up of an invasive an of up setting the with measures control pest their Like New Zealand, the Australians have given priority to the Australians have given priority Like New Zealand, measures Australian control pest Australia and progressively internationally. Australia and progressively great foundations to minimise the impacts of invasive species on the foundations to minimise the great in environments health and sustainability of communities and prosperity, Protect Autumn 2017 Atlantic states. States, causingeconomiclossesinthemid- now asignificantagriculturalpestintheUnited The brown marmoratedstinkbug(BMSB)is Pennsylvania. of householdgoodstravellingfrom Beijingto territory ofAsiabyhitchingarideoncontainer maize, cornandwheat.In1996itleftitshome crops andornamentalplants.Itisalsoapestfor a seriouslynastypestoffruittrees, vegetable page 16 world bystorminaverybadway. ( The voraciousmarmoratedstinkbug case theworsthappens. made ittoourshores, forces are rallyingjustin While thebrown marmoratedstinkbughasn’t case theinvadersucceeds. explains someofthepreparations in biosecurity andtradepolicymanage keep itout.Richard Palmer, HortNZ’s but NewZealandisdoingitsbestto is atthedoortryingtokickitdown The brown marmorated stinkbug v stinkbug wasp Samurai Halyomorpha halys Sector news ) istakingthe It is marmorated stinkbugisalso native. plan. Itoriginatesfrom China,JapanandSouthKorea, where thebrown Meanwhile, theSamuraiwasp ( urban environments. kill thebug,andishavingthesechemicalsassessedapproved forusein for PrimaryIndustries(MPI)hasidentifiedthree existing chemicalsthatcan stink bugwillincludeamixofchemicalandbiocontrol agents. TheMinistry The endgame for us is that attempted eradication of the brown marmorated hit ithead-onshouldmanagetosetuphomehere. an arsenal–otherwiseknownasintegratedpestmanagement plan–to prevent itfrom entering attheborder; butmore thanthat,weare building smells whensquashedandisdifficulttokill. New Zealand’s approach tothestink bug isworldleading. done tomakesure wehaveaPlanBifitdoesestablishhere. There’s alotgoingonattheborder, andjustasimportantly, alotbeing So it’s ineveryone’s interests toworkhard toensure itdoesn’t gethere. controls atfourtimestheusualnumbertocontrol thebug. Experience intheUnitedStatestellsusthatmanagementrequires chemical will happilydestroy anurbangarden. problem forurbandwellers.Inwinteritclingstohouseswarmthand And it’s notjustaproblem forhorticulture andfarming,it’s alifestyle realised. Ithasonlybeeninthatcountryforabouttwoyears. are suggestingitcouldhaveamuchgreater impactonkiwifruitthanwehad the stinkbugiscuttingaswathethrough kiwifruitinItaly–earlyindications And from there, ithasbegunspreading throughout theworld.Rightnow making damnsure weare doingeverythinginourpower Trissolcus japonicus) It’s alsoaverytoughdude;it isalsopartofour We are to Protect Autumn 2017 page 17 . By their own traps: The trap hisses as 2 ”

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VI Y E U His turns of phrase, make this book enjoyable to read when it contains a His turns of phrase, make this book enjoyable to read lot of what could be very technical and inaccessible science, for example, he clearly explains: masting, Boviine TB, toxins and bait shyness. He even for pilots. I particularly enjoyed process delves into the rigid accreditation he painted of the way in which pilots use their dashboard the vivid picture lights to keep them on track during bait drops. He is not afraid to criticise the Department of Conservation which he says is to performing triage.” “reduced it resets - the sound of a revolution. Of a tide turning - the sound of a revolution. it resets themselves. self-documented actions and words they manage to hang self-documented actions and words He acknowledges the group of opponents who are philosophically opposed who are of opponents He acknowledges the group opinions with their strong and treats to any poison in the environment and respect. reverence “Ma and pharmacist. The notion of greengrocer fishmonger, is still butcher, the very cuts across poison into your provisions dropping or well-being, essence of haurora, to all New Zealanders to come up with something better. up with something better. to all New Zealanders to come its subtitle: The fight to The book is best summed up by wildlife. save New Zealand’s and soul into his book in which he draws clearly puts his heart Mr Hansford connections. upon a wealth of experience, and personal storylines covering the science, He brings together a good collection of in New Zealand. He backs up his politics, and practice of pest management personal experience. assertions with facts, with science, and with opponents of 1080 to come up extreme It is also a challenge to the more hang them. doesn’t Mr Hansford reply. with a credible and the fght and the New to save wildlife Zealand’s B P R book. It is a challenge This is most definitely not a pro-1080 Protecting 1080 Paradise: remote sensing; “ remote His clever use of words and wit allow him to put across points in an and wit allow him to put across His clever use of words appealing sometimes quite poetic manner: on stoats; “After all, this guy is of 30 million years of evolution the impeccably-crafted, fine-tuned product than a six-year funding package to find his weak spot.” On – it’ll take more and a gutsy rat”. On resetting CO and a gutsy rat”. On resetting

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EB HIS N crannies offered by these items and materials. crannies offered because the bug likes to hide in the nooks and machinery and stacks of stored goods (like machinery and stacks of stored particularly important to check timber) are the brown marmorated stink bug. Imported the brown F A T The most important thing now is constant vigilance. to import the Samurai wasp. the next risk season for BMSB arrivals. But, it would be much better to not have ultimately, May this year and a decision from EPA before before EPA May this year and a decision from We hope to have an application to the We by Authority (EPA) Protection Environmental naturalised to New Zealand. research to determine if the Samurai wasp to determine if the research and will have any impact on stink bugs native Better Border Biosecurity (B3) is conducting Biosecurity (B3) is conducting Better Border stakeholders. report is being funded by MPI and industry is being funded by MPI and report consulting with M and we are A cost/benefit analysis and risk assessment A cost/benefit analysis and risk assessment import the Samurai wasp into this country import the Samurai wasp into this country should the stink bug establish here. steering group to develop an application to to develop an application steering group bug biocontrol agent since 2007. New Zealand agent since 2007. bug biocontrol scientists and MPI have set up a industry, The United States has been studying the The United States has been studying the stink marmorated Samurai wasp as a brown marmorated stink bug eggs. wasp destroys between 63% and 85% of brown 85% of brown between 63% and wasp destroys the brown marmorated stink bug, and the wasp marmorated stink bug, the brown The larvae develop inside the stink bug egg. stink bug and possibly the most effective. The the most effective. stink bug and possibly of female wasp lays her eggs inside the eggs natural enemies of the brown marmorated brown natural enemies of the In fact the Samurai wasp is one of several In fact the Samurai Protect Autumn 2017 opponents accuseoftryingtocoverthemup. around 1080hascome from theveryresearchers somany passion andemotion convincingly ramshiswellmadepointshomewithgenuine they appeared perhapslong-winded,buton and politicsaround 1080andotherpolarisingmatters.Onfirstreading The middlechaptersthatfollowedinvolvedthepsychology, philosophy of thebook. good casefor1080,andfoundmyselfaskingwhatmore couldbeintherest I wasconvincedbythefirstthird ifthebookthatMrHansford hadmadea page 18 a coupleoftimes. shortage ofaction,andMrHansford onlysentme runningforthedictionary Protecting Paradisealsohastheelementsofagoodthriller, there isno makes NewZealandaworldleader. innovative response topesteradicationandcontrol that All kiwisshouldread thisbook,consideringitisour science: “ As wellasthetopicitself,bookmakesacaseforimportanceof sensational, yetunsubstantiatedclaimswithoutreasonable analysis. The mediatoocomesinforcriticismitscompulsiontoreport appears tobemindfuloftreating huntersandtheiropinionswithrespect. which heassertsislikelytobefrequent. AtthispointIshouldnotethathe and isunlikelytobeworsethanaslowdeathfrom abadly-placedgunshot, that itbeatsbeingeateninthemannerofprey the1080aimstoprotect, He alsoacknowledgesthatdeathfrom 1080isnotpleasantbutpointsout bat, butpointsoutthatthere are practicalandinnovativewaysaround this. dog, akea(becauseoftheirnaturalcuriosityratherthanneedtofeed)or Among acknowledgmentsinthebookare that1080isnotgreat ifyouare a forgiven forafewlaboured points. that wehavethe debate,becauseit’s agravethingthat wedo. and itstruckmethatwe’re righttoharbourreservations. It’s proper viscerally unnaturalintervention. Istoodregarding itforalong time, Nature here. Thebait,thatlittlepillforourailing forests, represents a natural compound,butwe’re notjustapplyingabitofNature tofix of sanctuary, ofspiritualrecourse. Sodiumfluoroacetate might bea doing here. “We’re hurlinga bane intoourcathedrals–places comes home–thatyoufullyappreciate themagnitude ofwhatwe’re a latentmenace.It’s notuntilyouseeoneintheforest thatitall …my firstbaitlookedinnocuousenough,yetsomehowprojected ailing forests thatExtract: little pill for our continued the real sciencehighlighting deficienciesanddoubts . Hedoesthisonhisowntermsandcanbe balance MrHansford ” tail betweenherlegs. on thenextavailableflight,presumably withher She wasforced toreturn toCanadawithhercat destined forthex-raymachine. when itbecameobviousthatpuss‘nbootswere She decidedto“let-the-cat-out-of-the-bag” reveal shehadacat inherhandbag. her bootswere dirtybutneglectedto International Airportwhodeclared a womanarrivingatAuckland It wasnotafairytaleendingfor boots puss‘n here: Not welcome The Tail