Biosecurity minister Damien O’Connor is pushing for a better public understanding of biosecurity threats, like the brown marmorated stink bug.
According to a survey done as part of the Biosecurity 2025 programme, more than 60% of New Zealanders have a good understanding of biosecurity and think it is important.
But only 2% think they would be personally affected by a biosecurity breach.
“The importance and enormity of the biosecurity task means it’s important for every Kiwi to pitch in, to protect our critical primary industries and way of life.
“Earlier this year we turned around ships carrying cars and machinery – and the dreaded brown marmorated stink bug that would not only decimate our horticulture sector but infest our homes and gardens.”
The research also included a business survey that focused on two key groups: transport, distribution and logistics; and primary producers.
Both groups have significant biosecurity risks associated with the day-to-day running of their businesses.
“It was great to see that 71% of transport, distribution and logistics businesses are actively managing pest and disease risk but we need to work more closely with primary producers, as only 30 per cent are actively managing pest and disease risk.
“The research shows New Zealanders need more awareness around biosecurity and provides a baseline on which we can improve,” Damien O’Connor said.
Biosecurity 2025 is a partnership between individuals, organisations, Māori, and central, local and regional government that aims to make New Zealand’s biosecurity system more resilient and future-focused.
