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Biosecurity Research and Development

Biosecurity Research and Development

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Biosecurity Research and Development

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 Kiwifruit Biosecurity Science/Technical 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
Bryan ParkesZespriHead of Innovation Acceleration
Robert TaylorMinistry for Primary IndustriesTeam Manager Mycology & Botany
Liarna WhiteKVHKVH Board Grower 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

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LATEST NEWS

20 May 2025

Larvae bedding down in Red19 canes

This month KVH followed up an interesting find by an observant orchard worker completing vine training in a developing Red19 block. They had previously noticed unusual breakages where canes appeared to have been cut or snapped. On closer inspection they found an insect larva had taken up residence in at least one of the canes. Images shared with Plant & Food Research Te Puke entomologists suggested the larva was likely that of a longhorn beetle, a potential visitor from surrounding bushland. Forwarded samples showed the larva had classical features of longhorn beetles with a pale body, fatter head, small mandibles, and legs also present though not obvious. It was unknown whether longhorn beetles had previously been associated with kiwifruit, and as the larva was unlikely to be successfully reared to adulthood the sample was forwarded to the Plant Health and Environmental Laboratory (PHEL) for identification. The specimen was confirmed as Oemona Hirta, a native longhorn beetle known as “lemon tree borer”. Actinidia chinensis was recorded as a known host for this pest, which tunnels into live wood and has a broad range of hosts including native and fruit trees. Protection of fresh pruning wounds with a sealant to close off the wound and form a physical barrier against the larva boring into the plant was suggested, with removal of pruning off-cuts also recommended to avoid infestations. Follow-up of these finds are interesting and potentially important as some species of longhorn beetles are on the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) list of most unwanted as they could cause serious damage for the forestry industry and these investigations have the potential to support surveillance.

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19 May 2025

Plant health and important biosecurity research

A researcher we network with because of her project dedicated to learning about Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death on Hawaii and its potential impact here, is representing New Zealand in an international video contest. Watch Luna from Plant & Food Research’s video and give it a thumbs up to show your support. The contest features 15 entries from around the globe and promotes the importance of plant health research through short, engaging videos. Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death is caused by two species of Ceratocystis and is having a devastating effect on native trees on Hawaii. As well as being a major threat to our own iconic natives, Ceratocystis pathogens are near the top of KVH’s Most Unwanted list as they have caused significant impact to kiwifruit production in Brazil. In fact, recent research funded by Zespri Innovation has demonstrated that it is not only these Brazilian strains we need to be worried about - other close relatives around the world, including the species affecting Hawaii, are also pathogenic to kiwifruit. Ceratocystis pathogens are a serious emerging threat. Supporting this kind of research helps build resilience and KVH is proud to support the Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death project and the important work being done in this space.

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19 May 2025

Stay biosecurity-smart when planting or replacing vines

Winter is a key time for replanting or establishing new kiwifruit blocks. Whether you're replacing old vines or developing a new area, it's vital to stay on top of biosecurity requirements - especially when moving plants between properties. Following biosecurity requirements reduces the risk of spreading pests and diseases like Psa and helps ensure a rapid, effective response if a new organism is detected. Growers must only source kiwifruit plants from nurseries that meet the National Kiwifruit Pathway Management Plan requirements. This means certification through one of the following: KVH’s Kiwifruit Plant Certification Scheme (KPCS) Plant Pass, a broad nursery certification programme for all plant types You’ll find a list of certified nurseries on the KVH website. Two levels of certification are available: Full Certification: Plants are free from Psa and other target organisms. These nurseries operate in Psa-free environments and provide plants that have tested Psa Not Detected. Restricted Certification: Plants may carry the common New Zealand strain of Psa (Psa-V) but are tested to be free from more harmful, resistant, or offshore strains. Growers can produce their own plants on the property they’ll be used on, without certification. Additionally, up to 1,000 plants per year may be moved between properties under the same ownership (KPINs). While certification isn't needed in these cases, accurate traceability records must be kept. Important reminders: Do not move any plants showing disease symptoms. Both the supplying nursery and the receiving property must maintain traceability records in case symptoms appear later and tracing is required. For further guidance or to view certified nursery lists, visit the KVH nursery web page or contact us directly.

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