Myrtle Rust - summary of the current situation

There are currently 122 confirmed sites in Northland, Taranaki, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, where myrtle rust has been detected. All these sites have been treated, with infected plants removed, and will be resurveyed in the future.

Both the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and Department of Conservation (DOC) continued surveillance over winter, with focus on determining if myrtle rust is more widespread. Myrtle rust was not found in new regions or on Public Conservation Lands, but it was found to be more widespread in two of the existing regions, northern Taranaki and Te Kuiti/Otorohanga. The NZPPI's member-exclusive guidance was sent to members in the first week of September.

You may have also seen a renewed marketing campaign by MPI and DOC in recent weeks. This advertising campaign sends important messages to the public to assist with the surveillance, especially during the change in seasons.

The latest and full situation updates can be accessed here

What you need to know about myrtle rust heading into spring

With the wet spring many of us are having, and as it warms up, we’re fast approaching ideal conditions for myrtle rust. It’s critical we all stay vigilant, on the lookout for symptoms and report any suspicious symptoms to MPI. Read more here

Minor changes to NZPPI Myrtle Rust Protocols – stay vigilant!

Only minor changes have been made to the myrtle rust protocols to reflect the change in season and MPI’s view on risk. Check the new protocols on the NZPPI home page

Why continued vigilance matters - protecting your business & NZ

NZPPI’s Myrtle Rust Protocols are designed to be practical, protect our businesses and reduce risk we inadvertently spread myrtle rust through plant movements. They are endorsed by MPI. Read more here

What comes next – what to expect in coming months & beyond?

As plants people we’re well used to managing rusts and other disease issues, and we all recognise myrtle rust is likely here to stay. It follows that longer term spread of such an airborne rust would be inevitable. A lot of preparatory work has gone into preparing for this scenario – long term management (LTM) - and this is now rapidly taking shape. You can be assured NZPPI is actively involved in this, and we’ll keep NZPPI members updated as decisions are made. Read more here

Poinsettia thrips update

MPI is continuing to investigate the presence of Poinsettia thrips, which were detected in an Auckland greenhouse in August. MPI has been working closely with the Auckland greenhouse where Poinsettia thrips were detected and has carried out surveillance and monitoring. The greenhouse has also been re-treated and re-inspected since the initial find to ensure presence of no further thrips.

… more on Poinsettia thrips

Attention all Plant Importers

Over the past six months we have had numerous enquiries from concerned members over the recent Import Health Standard imposed by MPI on plant material coming from Xylella affected countries. All concerns are around the harsh and somewhat impractical measures now being required.

After consulting several members we are proposing to all meet and discuss how we can suggest alternative measures to MPI where all parties can continue to operate in a safe and professional manner. Some of the items on the agenda will be European lab inspections, etc. Whilst we exercise our voice we may also look to discuss other such matters as GM Petunia importation standards and any other issues which may be relevant.

We are acutely aware that a collective and cohesive approach will be best so at this stage we are setting up a meeting in Auckland preferably before the 22nd November which is the next NZPPI board meeting. A time and venue will be confirmed in early November so look out for your invite.

You're invited - NZPPI dinner at the NZ Flower & Garden Show

NZPPI invites you to an exclusive industry event on Wednesday 29th November in Auckland at The New Zealand Flower and Garden Show 2017. Not to be missed, this event offers members the opportunity to catch up with colleagues in a perfect garden setting, and all the whilst supporting and heralding the return of a New Zealand flower and garden show.

Held at The Trusts Arena, Henderson, tickets are $75 + gst and includes access to the show from 3pm and a Christmas buffet dinner at 6pm. For more information and to book contact frances@nzppi.co.nz

Hazardous Substances Toolbox

The Hazardous Substances Toolbox has practical tools and guidance including:

• The Hazardous Substances Calculator (currently called the HSNO Calculator)
• The Practical Guide to Working with Hazardous Substances
• A workbook to help you create an inventory
• Animated videos about the safe management of hazardous substances
• Information for workers on staying safe around hazardous substances

The Hazardous Substances Calculator is a valuable, time-saving tool available free of charge that you can use to create, edit and access your inventory online. It allows you to:

• Create a compliant inventory
• Identify the majority of requirements you must comply with for the substances in your workplace
• Access guidance material and legislation

The Toolbox and Calculator are available at www.hazardoussubtances.govt.nz. They will be updated to reflect the new Regulations, but now is a good time to familiarise yourself with the Calculator. Your saved inventory will be accessible when the Calculator is updated, but you will need to update the information to create a compliant inventory.

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Like the NZPPI Facebook page and be regularly informed on the latest industry news and event updates. Plus stay up-to-date with trends, products and technical papers from overseas.

Snippets

• REGISTER: Export Essentials Workshops coming up soon - Want better export results in 2018? Get the tools and action plan you need to reach your international goals at NZTE's upcoming Export Essentials workshops, running this month and next in Auckland, Wellington, New Plymouth and Hamilton. Register now to secure your place - Auckland workshops kick off on 18 October. Full list available here

©2017 NZPPI
New Zealand Plant Producers Incorporated
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Level 5, 23 Waring Taylor Street, Wellington
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