Interlocking layers of biosecurity protection
Biosecurity New Zealand is part of the Ministry for Primary Industries and is focused on:
- stopping pests and diseases at the border before they get to New Zealand
- eradicating or managing the impact of those already here.
With the help of New Zealanders, we ensure our unique environments and the value of our primary industries are maintained.
Biosecurity New Zealand provides the operational focus and direction to ensure Aotearoa has the right resources and people-power to protect our country from biosecurity threats.
New Zealand has a complex and effective biosecurity system to support our unique environment and the relatively few pests and diseases that threaten our economy. New Zealand's biosecurity system has 3 interlocking layers of protection – pre-border, border and post-border. From regulations, to inspections and surveillance, our robust system helps prevent new threats from establishing in Aotearoa.
This system involves:
- trade and bilateral agreements
- international plant and animal health standards
- risk assessment and import health standards
- border intervention
- readiness and response
- surveillance
- pest and diseases management.
Find out what our biosecurity system protects New Zealand from
It takes all of us to protect what we’ve got
Some exotic pests and diseases are already well established in New Zealand. If these are known threats, they are managed by local and regional councils or the Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai.
Learn how biosecurity is managed by region
Through ‘Ko Tātou This Is Us’ and biosecurity awareness programmes, Biosecurity New Zealand is working with organisations across the motu (country) to raise the profile of biosecurity. This means New Zealanders can understand what biosecurity is, why it's important, and what they can do to contribute.
Find out more about Ko Tātou This Is Us and how you can help
Who to contact
If you have questions about the information on this page, email info@mpi.govt.nz
