The cruise industry has stepped up its efforts to protect New Zealand from biofouling, says Mike Inglis, Biosecurity New Zealand Commissioner North.

The summer cruise season is winding down, with just one more ship expected to arrive in New Zealand for the first time.

Biosecurity New Zealand has so far assessed 44 vessels who have visited our shores this season for excessive marine growth on their hulls and other submerged surfaces.

Mr Inglis says of these, only one vessel this season required cleaning to show compliance with New Zealand’s biofouling rules

“It’s been a great season. Cruise operators continue to prioritise biofouling management. We have been in close contact to make sure they understand and follow New Zealand’s biofouling rules, which are some of the toughest in the world.

“These regulations are about protecting our maritime industries and pristine marine areas, like Fiordland, so people can enjoy them for years to come."

Mr Inglis says there is strict enforcement of New Zealand’s biofouling rules.

“In the 2022/23 season, following the resumption of international cruise voyages after the pandemic, 11 vessels didn’t meet our standards. Of these, three cleaned their hulls prior to arrival and completed their itineraries. The other eight faced itinerary restrictions.

“In the 2023/24 season, that number dropped to just four. Of these, three completed their planned itineraries after additional cleaning and providing additional information, and one vessel cancelled one voyage due to biofouling but returned fully compliant during the season.

“The results this season show the close working relationship we have established with the cruise industry is really paying off.

“Biofouling is a significant biosecurity risk – about 90 per cent of marine pests hitch a ride into New Zealand on the hulls of international vessels, which could harm our environment, aquaculture industry, and economy.”

New Zealand was the first country to roll out a national biofouling standard in 2014.

Mr Inglis says new evidence requirements will be introduced this month for all international vessels, including cruise, to prove they meet biofouling rules.

“Biosecurity New Zealand has been working with industry since the Craft Risk Management Standard was updated in October 2023.

“We’re confident the new requirements are well understood and will have minimal impact on vessel operations, as most operators are already compliant.”

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