The Oriental fruit fly response has continued in Papatoetoe, with no further sign of the pest so far.
It follows the identification of a single male fruit fly in a surveillance trap in the Papatoetoe suburb last Wednesday.
“We’re continuing to ramp up our surveillance, including setting and checking additional traps in the area around the original find,” said Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis.
“Today, our team is installing signage where legal controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables are in place. The legal controls are an important precaution while we investigate whether there are any further fruit flies present."
The area with controls in place comprises two zones: Zone A, a 200-metre zone encompassing 501 properties. Zone B covers a 1,500-metre area, including 9,481 properties.
Zone A
No whole fresh fruit and vegetables, except for leafy vegetables and soil-free root vegetables, can be moved outside Zone A. This applies to all produce, whether bought or grown.
Zone B
All fruit and vegetables grown within Zone B cannot be moved out of the controlled area.
Biosecurity disposal bins are being placed in the area for fruit, vegetable, and compost waste, which are then collected for secure disposal.
A map of the controlled area, along with a full description of the boundaries and rules in place, is available.
“Biosecurity New Zealand staff are on the ground in the area today and over the weekend, handing out brochures and providing information and support to the community and businesses,” said Inglis.
They will be visiting the local night markets in Papatoetoe to share information about the response.
“We’ve stamped out previous fruit flies with the help of local communities and our sector partners, and we appreciate their ongoing support.”
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