Why science is the link that makes biosecurity work for New Zealand
Biosecurity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s the invisible shield protecting much of what makes New Zealand unique. From our primary industries to native wildlife, from the land and rivers we cherish to the lifestyles and culture we enjoy, biosecurity underpins it.
So, what exactly is biosecurity?
At its core, biosecurity is about protecting New Zealand by keeping out, controlling, or eliminating pests and diseases that could cause harm. It’s our front line against invasive species and harmful organisms, preventing them from entering our borders or spreading within the country.
These threats have wide-ranging impacts. They can undermine the health of our crops and livestock, disrupt export markets, damage tourism, and create expensive control challenges. Invasive species also put pressure on native wildlife, spread disease, and upset delicate ecosystems, leading to issues like clogged waterways and land erosion.
Biosecurity breaches don’t just affect the economy or environment, they can restrict travel, degrade wilderness areas, spoil waterways, and reduce the abundance of plants, animals and fish that are part of daily life in New Zealand.
A complex system, built for modern challenges
New Zealand’s biosecurity system is a sophisticated network, made up of people, tools, technology, rules, and processes working together to manage risks – offshore, at our borders, and within our communities. Every year coordinated efforts are made to keep out nearly 15,000 known unwanted plant, animal, and marine pests and diseases.
But the job is getting harder.
The ways new threats can reach us, so-called “risk pathways”, are multiplying and climate change is shifting the playing field. Both new and established pests and diseases are creating more pressure than ever before.
Science as the cornerstone
This is where science comes in, connecting every part of our biosecurity system. Effective biosecurity goes beyond just reacting. It requires bringing together knowledge from human, animal, plant and environmental health to tackle complex and evolving risks – like pandemics, antimicrobial resistance and emerging diseases.
Working together for a safer tomorrow
No country can do this alone. Biosecurity threats are global and transboundary. That’s why PHF Science is facilitating a summit and technical exchanges, bringing together partners from across the world to focus on translating science into real-world protection and to identify new opportunities for collaboration.
In an interconnected world, our resilience depends on collaboration, innovation and vigilance. Science is the engine that keeps New Zealand’s biosecurity system strong and keeps our country, industries and way of life safe for the future.