The cod database contains data collected by Ministry for Primary Industries Observers on commercial fishing vessels. cod contains the catch and effort information for observed vessels, length frequency, biological and ageing materials data for commercial species as recorded by the observers, as well as relevant trip and tow information. Cod replaces the earlier observer databases obs, obs_lfs and l_line .

This report reviews if the risk from norovirus in bivalve molluscan shellfish (BMS) has changed since a 2009 risk profile. Norovirus testing of oysters has been an Imported Food Requirement since 2012. The lack of reported outbreaks suggests this measure is effective in leading to a decreased risk associated with BMS. The two most recent outbreaks were associated with recreational harvest of BMS, supporting that a risk remains here. Knowledge gaps have been identified to support future research.

Keywords: Norovirus, oysters, foodborne illness

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is responsible for establishing and administering the standards and regulations for New Zealand’s food safety, biosecurity, primary production and animal welfare systems.
International standards, risk-management and science provide the framework for MPI’s regulatory systems and are guiding principles for setting standards.
The standards as applied by MPI are largely outcome-based, providing a high level of reliability and control across all players in New Zealand’s primary production and processing sectors. MPI and approved organisations (referred to as ‘recognised agencies’) routinely audit and monitor aspects of these systems to ensure that standards continue to be met.
MPI employs more than 3000 staff and has strong relationships with other New Zealand government agencies.