Seen something unusual? MAKE A REPORT
Seen something unusual? MAKE A REPORT
KVH investigates reports of unusual symptoms to identify and manage any biosecurity risks.
13 Mar 2025
The world’s largest hornet, an invasive breed dubbed the “murder hornet” for its dangerous sting and ability to quickly destroy a hive, has been declared eradicated in the United States, five years after being spotted for the first time in Washington state near the Canadian border. It’s thought the invasive hornets could have travelled to North America in plant pots or shipping containers and have posed significant threats to pollinators and native insects during the five-year response. They can wipe out a honeybee hive in as little as 90 minutes, decapitating the bees and then defending the hive as their own, taking the brood to feed their own young. The hornet features in our 2025 calendar of pests to keep a look out for, especially as it isn’t like anything we already have here in New Zealand already and will look new and unusual.
Read more13 Mar 2025
KVH is pleased to welcome Scott Wilson as the new regional coordinator for Poverty Bay, strengthening connection between local growers and biosecurity efforts. While this role in Poverty Bay was initially established during the Psa response period, it was later phased out as the disease became increasingly well managed. However, with the rapid growth of the kiwifruit sector in the region, KVH recognises the value of reintroducing a dedicated representative. The role enhances local biosecurity monitoring, facilitates communication about emerging threats, and supports the development of the regional emergency response network. Scott brings decades of experience to the position, having been involved in the kiwifruit industry since the mid-1980s. He was heavily involved during the Psa incursion and has recently stepped down as GM of Kaiaponi Farms after 24 years, allowing him to dedicate more time to industry support. His firsthand experience with events like Cyclone Gabrielle further strengthens his ability to help growers build resilience against future challenges. Scott is eager to connect with growers and encourages anyone with biosecurity concerns or regional interests to reach out. KVH thanks all those who expressed interest in the role, with responses reflecting an awareness of the importance of Poverty Bay growers remaining well connected in the biosecurity and emergency response space.
Read more13 Mar 2025
Legal controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in Birkdale will remain in place for the next few weeks as part of the response to the discovery of a single male Oriental fruit fly earlier this month. Sector groups, including KVH staff and industry personnel from APAC, have been providing support for heightened operational activities, which are continuing a little longer as a precautionary approach. It’s anticipated the restrictions will remain in place until Thursday 10 April. This is vital to success in keeping fruit fly out of New Zealand and protecting kiwifruit growers, and horticultural exports. It also ensures we can be confident there is no breeding population. To date, no other Oriental fruit flies have been found. Full details are available on the KVH website here.
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