September 10, 2002 - Wellington

MEDIA RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE USE

Forest and Bird welcomes Painted Apple Moth decision

Forest and Bird is hailing today's Cabinet decision on Painted Apple Moth as an investment in the future of New Zealand's native forests.

Cabinet today voted to continue eradication of painted apple moth.

"Painted Apple Moth munches on a range of native forest trees. The decision to continue eradicating the moth is a relief. We don't need the insect equivalent of the possum", said Forest and Bird Biosecurity Awareness Officer Geoff Keey.

"New Zealand's agricultural production and priceless native plants and animals depend on a robust biosecurity system. It is good that the government is responding to the threat posed by Painted Apple Moth, but it would be better if Painted Apple Moth never got established in the first place", Geoff Keey said.

"The government now needs to increase and improve shipping container inspections and improve surveillance for pests around ports and other places where pests like Painted Apple Moth can reach New Zealand", Geoff Keey said.

ENDS

Note: Plants threatened by Painted Apple Moth include:

· Kohuhu,
· Kanuka,
· Manuka,
· Karamu
· Kohekohe
· Kahikatea
· Rimu
· Totora
· Miro
· Hard beech
· Kauri
· Kowhai
· a variety of native broom species,
· Mountain Beech
· Mangrove
· Karaka
· Black beech
· Red beech

Contact: Geoff Keey, Biosecurity Awareness Officer. 04 385 7374, 04 385 3392 Eric Pyle, Conservation Manager Tel. 04 385 7374, 025 227 8420

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