Northland Beekeeper Calls for Buffer Zones as Asian hornet Threat Looms
Whangārei,New Zealand – A Northland beekeeper is urging swift action to establish regional buffer zones as the threat of Asian hornets spreading beyond Auckland intensifies,following what he describes as a “failed” response to kauri dieback in the region. the call comes amid concerns that Biosecurity New Zealand’s current strategy may not be enough to protect New Zealand’s vital ecosystems and economy.
The invasive hornet, Vespa velutina, poses a meaningful risk to honeybees and native insects, crucial for pollination. while Biosecurity New Zealand is currently leading the response in auckland,where the hornets were first detected,some are questioning the adequacy of the current measures and advocating for a more proactive,regional approach.
Beekeeper Windust,who feels he has been a “lonely voice” calling for a stronger response,expressed hope for eradication in Auckland but warned against relying solely on Biosecurity New Zealand. “There’s to much at stake for New Zealand’s economy and ecosystems,” he said.
Northland Regional Council (NRC) biosecurity manager Don McKenzie acknowledged the concerns, but stated that MPI is leading the Auckland response and has not yet requested assistance or advised on regional buffer zones. NRC is currently not recommending trapping outside of Auckland due to the risk of catching honeybees and native insects,but is urging early detection and reporting with clear evidence.
Despite the concerns, major industry groups – Horticulture New Zealand, Kiwifruit Vine Health (KVH), and NZ Avocado – have expressed confidence in Biosecurity New Zealand’s leadership and are currently relying on their response. horticulture NZ praised MPI’s “quick response” and increased surveillance, while NZ Avocado highlighted existing research and planning with Biosecurity New Zealand for managing potential pollination threats. Fonterra, a signatory to the Biosecurity Business Pledge, stated it works through industry-government agreements for biosecurity responses.
the situation underscores lessons learned from past biosecurity challenges, with Windust pointing to the “failed” kauri dieback response in Northland as evidence of the need for innovation and community-led action.
