West Aucklanders could be doused with insecticide again if a moth infestation proves resistant.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is checking a West Auckland suburb that became infested with the painted apple moth earlier this year.

Spraying was carried out in Glendene throughout May after the moth was found to be living quite happily in and around the suburb.

Originally from Australia the moth feeds on many fruit trees and also poses a threat to New Zealand’s pine forests.

MAF staff will be scouring the west Auckland properties searching for any sings that the painted apple moth is still alive and thriving.

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