Skip to main content

Which pests, diseases, or regulated organisms, if any, that are associated with fresh blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) imports from Chile, Mexico, Morocco, Peru, and the United States of America, have the potential to disrupt New Zealand's unique flora and fauna, if that organism were to establish in New Zealand?

Answered Question 30987 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged
Bookmark

Asked by

Jo Luxton

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • Which pests, diseases, or regulated organisms, if any, that are associated with fresh blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) imports from Chile, Mexico, Morocco, Peru, and the United States of America, have the potential to disrupt New Zealand's unique flora and fauna, if that organism were to establish in New Zealand?

Answered by

Hon Andrew Hoggard

List MP · ACT Party · Minister for Biosecurity

Answer

The potential for pests, disease and regulated organisms to cause harm to New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna was considered as part of the risk assessment process for fresh blueberry imports. I am advised that details of the risk assessment process can be found on the Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) consultation page for the draft standard: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/proposed-import-requirements-for-fresh-blueberries-vaccinium-spp-for-human-consumption. The risk assessment, Import Risk Analysis for Fresh Blueberries, can be found on MPI’s consultation page.