MAF confirms positive test for kiwifruit vine bacteria Psa

MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAF) has tonight received the results of sequence testing of bacteria isolates which confirms that Pseudomonas syringae pv. Actinidiae (Psa) is present on a number of vines in a Bay of Plenty orchard.

Further testing is underway to determine the strain.

MAF investigators, accompanied by New Zealand’s leading bacteriologists, visited the orchard today to conduct a site inspection and gather further information. MAF 's key focus is understanding the spread of the bacteria in New Zealand.

MAF is working closely with ZESPRI, Plant & Food Research and New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI) to better understand and mitigate any risks associated with the spread of Psa.

Industry meetings are being held tomorrow to advise growers of the current situation, how to recognise symptoms and encourage best practice orchard hygiene.