Combine Harvester Rejected from Entering NZ

Thursday, 26 April 2001, 9:34 am
Press Release: Ministry Of Agriculture And Forestry

Media Statement
For immediate release
April 24 2001

Combine Harvester Rejected from Entering New Zealand

A combine harvester imported from Britain has been rejected from entering New Zealand after it arrived at the Port of Auckland covered in mud, grass, plant material and possible animal waste.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, inspected the harvester on board the ship where it remains. The vessel is due to leave Auckland tonight. (April 23 2001)

Quarantine Services national manager of cargo and vessel clearance John Burton said MAF’s inspection found the harvester was grossly contaminated with a range of risk material that could bring disease and weed seeds to New Zealand.

“It would have been rejected regardless of the Foot and Mouth outbreak in Britain, however this incident demonstrates MAF’s zero tolerance when enforcing our biosecurity controls.

The importer, a rural New Zealander, told MAF under normal circumstances he would have overseen the cleaning of the machinery before it left, but on this occasion he did not, said Mr Burton.

Obviously this rejection will be at a significant cost to the importer, he said.

“The message is clear, New Zealand importers need to ensure their international agents know and adhere to our rules because we will reject any cargo that puts our country at risk”.

During the past year MAF has rejected five large machines imported from Japan and another two from the United Kingdom.

Ends

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