Biosecurity New Zealand has lifted controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe after no further evidence of the Oriental fruit fly was found. The decision follows over a month of intensive trapping and inspections of hundreds of kilograms of fruit, confirming that the area is free of the pest.
Mike Inglis, Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north, expressed gratitude to residents and businesses for their cooperation with the movement restrictions, their vigilance in looking out for fruit flies, and their efforts in safely disposing of fruit in provided bins. He emphasized the importance of these actions in protecting New Zealand's horticultural sector, as the Oriental fruit fly poses a significant threat to both exports and home gardens.
Legal controls were placed on the movement of fruit and vegetables in Papatoetoe on 4 January 2025 after a single male Oriental fruit fly was detected in a national surveillance trap. Following six weeks of monitoring, with no further detections of adult fruit flies, eggs, larvae, or pupae, Biosecurity New Zealand determined that restrictions could be lifted, and response operations concluded.
Over the next few days, Biosecurity New Zealand signs and collection bins will be removed from the affected area. However, surveillance efforts will continue, with regular checks of 7,800 fruit fly traps across New Zealand, including approximately 200 traps in the Papatoetoe/Māngere area.
To mark the conclusion of the response, Biosecurity New Zealand personnel will be in Papatoetoe, distributing flyers and personally thanking residents and business owners for their contribution. Inglis also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of his team and partners in the horticulture sector, stating that by acting swiftly and working together, the situation was effectively managed.
During the response, 1,500 visits were made to inspect 109 special fruit fly traps in Papatoetoe/Māngere, in addition to 187 routine surveillance traps in the area. More than 600 biosecurity bins were distributed to collect produce waste for safe disposal, and over 470 kilograms of fruit were carefully examined for any signs of fruit fly eggs or larvae. The operation involved more than 150 Biosecurity New Zealand staff, ensuring a thorough and effective response.
For more information:
Biosecurity New Zealand
Tel: +64 029 894 0328
Email: [email protected]
www.mpi.govt.nz