Biosecurity R&D

Investment in science to understand the nature of significant biosecurity threats, and developing tools for their management should they arrive, is a big priority for the kiwifruit industry.

KVH and Zespri established the Biosecurity Advisory Group with the goal of reducing the risk and impact of biosecurity incursions to the kiwifruit industry. The group identifies knowledge gaps and prioritises research needs relating to kiwifruit biosecurity threats that are not yet established in New Zealand.

The group prioritises research to meet the following objectives:

  • Develop a greater understanding of biosecurity threats to the kiwifruit industry.

  • Develop tools to reduce the likelihood of establishment and impact of these biosecurity threats, which includes tools for diagnostics, surveillance, eradication and management.

  • Pathway analysis to understand where gaps may occur in the biosecurity system and take a collaborative approach with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to address these.

Associated with the group is the Kiwifruit Biosecurity Research Portfolio, managed by the Zespri Innovation team.

Leanne StewartKVHChief Executive
Matt DyckKVHBiosecurity Manager
Erin LaneKVHSenior Biosecurity Advisor
Dr Chandan PalZespriInnovation Manager
Rebecca BurnsZespriInnovation Leader
Juliet AnsellZespriHead of Core and Resilience Innovation
Robert TaylorMinistry for Primary IndustriesTeam Manager Mycology & Botany
Simon CookKVHKVH Director
Dr David BellamyPlant & Food ResearchScience Group Leader Entomology
Dr Rebecca McDougalScionTeam Lead Pathology Ecology & Control
Dr David TeulonPlant & Food ResearchPrincipal Scientist
Karen PughMinistry for Primary IndustriesTeam Manager Fresh Produce Imports
Sophie BadlandNew Zealand WinegrowersBiosecurity and Emergency Response Manager
Dr Phil HumeCOBRASDirector