Celebrating success
The Director General of MPI, Ray Smith says it's important for his department to celebrate the success of a whole range of groups and people around the country.
Recent changes at Auckland Airport will benefit biosecurity, says MPI. A new layout and new x-ray equipment aim to increase space, allow the deployment additional staff, and improve flow for biosecurity checks.
"Low-risk passengers will spend less time in queues, enabling us to focus more on high-risk passengers – a major objective of MPI's risk-management approach," says Craig Hughes, MPI's northern border clearance manager, passengers and mail.
"One of the changes will be the introduction of a large green door to provide more visible access to our green lanes, which allow speedier exit for approved New Zealand and Australian passport holders."
According to Hughes, MPI and NZ customs staff will now share a search area and a collection counter, giving a single point for the processing of biosecurity fines and customs duties.
In the extra space provided by the layout change, the MPI has installed two new replacement x-ray machines for detecting biosecurity goods. The new machines are more reliable than previous equipment used, with improved image quality and functionality.
"This means border staff will be better equipped to spot biosecurity risk items before they enter New Zealand," says Hughes.
Hughes thanked Auckland Airport for financing the layout changes, saying he was "impressed by the company's commitment to the project and to biosecurity".
"The work is a good example of an airport and border agencies working closely together to improve biosecurity and the customer experience."
Judy Nicholl, Auckland Airport's general manager of aeronautical operations, says, "The new biosecurity layout and passenger processing system will improve the experience for those arriving at Auckland Airport from overseas."
"We congratulate the Ministry for Primary Industries on their ongoing commitment to improve what is one of the very first experiences that international tourists have when they arrive in New Zealand."
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Trade Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand has no intention of backing down in a trade dispute with Canada over dairy products.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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