HortNZ “thrilled” to back biosecurity bill

29th March 2021 By Staff Reporter | news@foodticker.co.nz | @foodtickernz

Horticulture New Zealand says it is “thrilled” that the Biosecurity (Information for Incoming Passengers) Amendment Bill has been drawn from the Private Member’s Ballot. 

If passed, the legislation would amend the Biosecurity Act 1993 to require that all aircrafts entering New Zealand provide biosecurity information to people onboard by both a video and in writing.

“When the border re-opens, it will be important to remind travellers of the need to be particularly vigilant when entering New Zealand,” said HortNZ chief executive Mike Chapman. 

“New Zealand’s top performing horticulture and other primary industries would be easily destroyed if a particularly virulent pest or disease entered the country. 

“This would have catastrophic effects on exports and the New Zealand economy, at a time when things are already fragile.”

Chapman said the country’s border security staff did “a fantastic job”. 

“When passed, this law will support their role to keep New Zealand’s biosecurity tight, by reminding passengers to be vigilant and declare any goods that could be harbouring a pest or disease that New Zealand doesn’t have.” 

HortNZ and the rest of New Zealand’s horticulture industry was anxiously awaiting decisions by the government on travel bubbles, particularly with the Pacific. 

“Although harvest is still underway, growers need to prepare for next season and make decisions, for example, around tree replacement and vegetable replanting,” Chapman said.

“Without more certainty, growers may make decisions that affect supply and have a negative impact on regional economies.”