Important Media Update

Thursday 11 Nov

• This morning MAF/ZESPRI will deploy over 40 personnel as part of a ‘rapid response team’ to work with kiwifruit growers to collect random leaf samples from gold and green orchards in the Te Puke region.

• The team comprises 20 Agfirst Bay of Plenty representatives and 20 orchard specialists from across the Post Harvest sector.

• As part of an industry wide response, Satara has provided the training base for this team.

• The teams will be assessing orchards and collecting random leaf samples from at least 40 orchards. The leaves collected may or may not have potential Psa symptoms.

• The leaf samples will be handled according to MAF Biosecurity protocols and transported to MAF/P&FR laboratories for scientific testing.

• This collection process is in addition to the current passive surveys being conducted by all kiwifruit growers.

• Test results are expected early next week. Results will provide MAF/ZESPRI with a clearer picture of the geographical spread of potential infection.

• This is an important step in the process of understanding and containing the spread of Psa and MAF/ZESPRI thank growers for their continued vigilance and support.

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