MPI is holding more public meetings and hui in Whangarei and Christchurch this week, and has today announced a further public meeting on Thursday, 8 September at Ascot Park Hotel, Corner of Tay Street & Racecourse Road, Invercargill.

The deadline for public submissions on the proposals outlined in the Biosecurity 2025 discussion document closes at 5.00 pm on 9 September.

"This is a great opportunity for anyone with an interest in protecting our unique environment, economy – and its potential for growth, health, and way of life from harmful pests and diseases, to have their say," says Julie Collins, MPI’s Director of Biosecurity and Animal Welfare. "It's an important issue that affects everyone. We want to know what you think works, what doesn't, and what might."

Although the biosecurity system is robust and highly regarded internationally, this is the right time to be looking to its future, Collins says. "We're living in an increasingly dynamic global world – more travel, more tourism, more trade – which while great for our economy and consumer choice is increasing the pressure across the system. Climate change, and the potential for warmer temperatures to affect those pests and diseases already in New Zealand and under control, adds to the risks."

So far, feedback has been positive on the proposals: to involve all New Zealanders – 4.7 million sets of eyes and ears; make better use of science, information, and technology; and boost careers and capability in biosecurity. 

The main questions have been on how this will happen, Collins says. "The new direction statement is the first step. Once it's released, we'll be discussing with our colleagues across the biosecurity system – other government agencies, regional councils, primary industries (many of which are partners in the Government Industry Agreement), MÄ�ori, importers, exporters, the travel industry, international trading partners, scientists, and community groups – to put it into action."

Meeting and hui information