What to do if you find a suspected new disease or pest

If you have found a pest or plant disease that you think is a biosecurity risk, phone the Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline:

0800 80 99 66

If you are involved with growing crops you should take the following precautions if you suspect a new organism:

1. Mark the place

Make sure that you can find the precise spot again. If possible use a coloured peg, stake or plastic streamer.

2. Collect a specimen

It is important not to spread the disease or pest. Only collect specimens into a paper or plastic bag if you think it is safe to do so. Ideally put the collection bag into a second bag. Keep the bags sealed and away from excessive heat, e.g. sunlight in a closed car. For more advice contact MAF on the Exotic Disease and Pest Hotline on the number above.

3. Maintain hygiene

Diseases and pests can be spread on clothing, people's skin and farm or crop monitoring equipment. If you think you have been in a crop where there might be a new disease or pest, be careful not to spread it.

Do not go immediately from the infested crop to an uninfested crop until you are clean.
Change and wash the clothes you were wearing and take a shower.
Clean equipment that has been in contact with the crop. Secateurs and similar equipment should be treated to kill viruses.

4. Report it

You have a responsibility and obligation to inform MAF Biosecurity New Zealand if you suspect you have found a new organism. Phone the Exotic Disease and Pest Hotline on the number above.