From now through to autumn, New Zealand enters the highest-risk period for two of the kiwifruit industry’s most unwanted biosecurity threats, exotic fruit flies and brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB).

The high-risk season typically runs from September through to May, when warmer temperatures, increased international trade pathways, and higher numbers of international visitors heightens the likelihood of these pests arriving in New Zealand.

Exotic fruit flies remain the kiwifruit industry’s number one biosecurity threat due to the severe market access impacts they could cause.

BMSB is one of the highest-priority pests for kiwifruit, capable of damaging fruit and affecting production if it were to establish here. The 2026/27 season marks 10 years of New Zealand’s BMSB programme, highlighting a decade of investment in keeping this significant pest out of the country.

Key activities planned for this season include:

• Increased scrutiny of Italian ceramic and tile imports following detections associated with these products in Australia.

• More verification inspections of full containers that have undergone offshore cleaning or other approved treatment systems.

• Uzbekistan is expected to be reclassified as a full BMSB-risk country, with containers arriving from the country continuing to undergo verification checks.

• Continued awareness activities targeting international air passengers. Officers will focus on travellers arriving from the United States, Canada, and Japan, providing information on BMSB and what to do if a suspect bug is found in luggage or personal belongings.
  
  

New Zealand remains free of both pests, but ongoing vigilance is critical.

Keep an eye out for anything unusual on-orchard, check pest ID resources with staff and contractors, and report any suspect insects, damage, or symptoms immediately.

Early detection gives us the best chance of stopping a pest before it can establish. If something doesn’t look right, don’t wait. Contact KVH or the Biosecurity New Zealand hotline 24/7 on 0800 665 825.

Order pest ID resources