Australian television personality and comedian Hamish Blake recently shared a cautionary tale that underscores the importance of biosecurity, especially for those in horticulture.

While traveling to New Zealand, Blake was fined $400 after border officials discovered an apple in his bag. On his podcast, he jokingly described New Zealand’s biosecurity measures as “maniacal,” but quickly added, “and so they should be. Beautiful ecosystem, got to protect it.”

He’s not alone. In June, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) seized 7,616 biosecurity risk items and issued 572 infringement notices - a reminder that vigilance at the border is critical.

For kiwifruit growers, the stakes are high. Biosecurity modelling shows that a fruit fly incursion in Te Puke could cost the industry up to $700 million in lost production, market access, and eradication efforts.

Whether you're traveling or receiving visitors, every piece of fruit matters. Follow best practice and help keep our borders, and our orchards, safe.