There have been no further detections of Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) following the discovery of a single male in a KVH‑funded surveillance trap in Orakei, Auckland in early February.

This detection highlights the strength and value of the kiwifruit industry’s biosecurity readiness. The trap that caught the BMSB is part of the KVH‑led kiwifruit surveillance programme, which is based on Zespri Innovation‑funded research identifying the highest‑risk locations for trap placement.

The programme also includes a trial of panel traps - a newer trap technology proven effective overseas, particularly in Australia. An image of the panel trap that detected the BMSB in Orakei can be viewed here.

Currently, nine traps are deployed near the detection site, comprising seven sticky traps and two panel traps. Surveillance will continue for a further nine weeks as a precautionary measure.

Image: The BMSB detected in a KVH-funded surveillance trap earlier this month.