As the kiwifruit pollination season approaches, KVH reminds all growers and beekeepers to contact us prior to moving beehives across the Cook Strait.

Why it matters

The Cook Strait serves as a strategic barrier between the North and South Islands. With the South Island currently free of Psa-V, strict controls are in place to prevent the spread of this high-risk pathogen, especially via pollination-related activities, including the movement of beehives.

Responsibilities for beekeepers

• KVH authorisation: All Cook Strait beehive movements where the final destination is a kiwifruit orchard or nursery require prior authorisation from KVH. Contact KVH at least 7 days before the proposed movement.

• Stand down period: Movement of hives from orchards in the North Island to the South Island presents a risk of Psa transfer which can be reduced with a stand-down period. This stand-down should be a period of at least 10 days at a location in the North Island that is outside of kiwifruit growing regions.

• Sanitisation requirements: Beehives, pallets, vehicles, and machinery must be free of kiwifruit plant material and debris before entering or leaving orchards. All equipment must also be sanitised with a KVH approved sanitiser.

• Biosecurity plans: Contractors not holding a Zespri CAV must complete a Non-CAV Contractors Biosecurity Plan and present it to growers. Templates are available on the KVH website.

Responsibilities for growers

• Know where your beehives are coming from: Ensure you are aware of where your beehives are coming from and communicate requirements clearly to beekeepers.

• Support fellow growers: Work collaboratively with beekeepers to ensure all KVH protocols are followed, including stand-down periods and hygiene practices.

• Report unusual symptoms: If you observe any unusual symptoms in your orchard, report them immediately to KVH.

Legal framework

These responsibilities are outlined under the Biosecurity (National Kiwifruit Pathway Management Plan) Order 2022. Non-compliance with plan rules may constitute an offence under the Biosecurity Act 1993.