New Zealand imports a range of fruit over the summer period to complement what we produce here. While measures are in place to prevent entry of pests and diseases on this pathway, we can strengthen the system and further reduce the risk by not taking imported fruit into orchards or discarding waste material near vines.

Prior to Christmas, KVH visited several fruit importers to raise awareness of biosecurity threats, highlight steps they can take to mitigate risk, and spread the message on the importance of biosecurity to our industry. We also distributed posters with great information on pests to look out for; for importers to display in their facilities. Thanks to the importers we visited, who were all very willing to listen and contribute ideas to improve biosecurity.