Dear valued customer,
Please see below VIA alert for stink bugs – for your information.
Biohazard warning: watch for stink bugs
All members are asked to be vigilant
The Brown Marmorated and Yellow Spotted Stink Bugs are a potentially devastating threat to New Zealand’s crops and primary industries.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has identified several instances of this pest reaching New Zealand on ships carrying new and used vehicles and industrial machinery.
How you can help: Inspect ALL vehicles thoroughly for signs of insect presence.
- Whether you’re an importer, wholesaler, compliance shop or dealer, check every vehicle that is currently on site and all new arrivals.
- These bugs are extremely difficult to find, but the more eyes we have looking, the better. Concentrate your efforts after a significant increase in temperature or following vehicle movement.
- Ships are currently being turned back from ports in both New Zealand and Australia, as MPI works across industries to secure our border from this threat.
- If you find any evidence of insect infestation, phone the 24/7 MPI Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66 and report it immediately.
More info is available on the MPI website.
VIA will be meeting with MPI on Thursday 15 February. We will advise any developments in another Alert on Friday.
For any questions, please contact VIA Technical Manager Malcolm Yorston on 0800 VIA VIA (842 842) or email technical@via.org.nz.