This Flagship provides new knowledge and tools to manage biosecurity risks across the layers of the biosecurity system, from prevention to post-border management.
We work alongside central and local government, the aquaculture, shipping, and energy sectors, and iwi/Māori and community groups to provide culturally appropriate and effective biosecurity measures to protect natural resources and maintain cultural heritage. We also collaborate with international organisations and research institutes to share knowledge and develop global biosecurity strategies, including working with Pacific partners to support the sustainable management and resilience of natural resources and environments.
This research on marine and freshwater biosecurity is crucial for economic growth and national security in New Zealand and the Pacific, due to reliance on unique ecosystems for economic, environmental, and cultural benefits. The introduction and spread of invasive species can have devastating effects on these ecosystems, threatening biodiversity, fisheries, agriculture, tourism, and the cultural practices of Māori and Pacific communities.
This Flagship develops advanced surveillance technologies and diagnostic tools for the early detection and management of invasive species, including predicting and mitigating the impacts of climate change on biosecurity risks. Key activities in the marine realm include the marine high risk site surveillance programme, the marine biosecurity toolkit for the Pacific, and the marine invasives taxonomic service. Key activities in the freshwater realm include automated detection of submerged invasive weeds and the development of management options for invasive weeds and pest fish.
