Hon Andrew Hoggard
Minister for Biosecurity

The latest Oriental fruit fly detection controls in Papatoetoe have been lifted from today thanks to a swift biosecurity response, says Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard.

“No further evidence of this pest has been found since the discovery of three male Oriental fruit flies in early March, which is welcome news.”

“An infestation could devastate our production and export market if it ever became established in the country.

“I’m proud of our rigorous biosecurity system, which includes the treatment of fruit before it arrives in New Zealand, checks at the border at both airports and import facilities, and surveillance trapping to catch any flies that slip through with passengers or on imported goods. Its thoroughness and the professionalism of our Biosecurity New Zealand staff help keep our industries safe every day.”

Mr Hoggard says the successful eradication of this pest wouldn’t have been possible without the cooperation and support of the local community, local businesses, and sector groups.

“I commend local efforts to follow the restrictions, which has gone a long way towards protecting our horticultural sector and our home gardens.”

Biosecurity New Zealand has now successfully handled 16 fruit fly responses over the past 30 years.

While the response is now concluding, the national fruit fly surveillance programme remains in place. This includes nearly 8000 traps set nationwide during the peak fruit fly season and checked regularly.

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