Mike Chapman NZKGI Chief Executive

There are four main work streams for Psa control, management and ultimately the required solution.

These work streams are:
1. Biosecurity Controls to contain and limit the spread of Psa as much as is possible. A key part of this is the implementation of a National Pest Management Strategy in 2012.

2. Psa Research and Development followed by grower extension/tech transfer passing on what has been discovered. This programme has seen new and effective sprays being developed that are making a difference.

3. Developing a Pathway Back to Prosperity, based on Research and Development and on orchard observations. The first step here is to find tolerant root stocks and varieties that will keep the industry functioning.

4. Grower support and welfare to support those in need, to keep skills in the Bay of Plenty and to enable us to have a viable industry and community while kiwifruit recovers.

This article focuses on grower and community support. It makes suggestions that apply to anyone dealing with Psa, be they a grower, kiwifruit worker or an associated business.

In December, support seminars were run throughout the Bay of Plenty providing advice and information on tax issues, financial decision making, the financial advocates' panel, an update on the work with banks, what support is on offer from Work and Income and how to detect and manage stress. These meetings were open to everyone in the community. In Katikati, for example, about 100 people attended the seminar with about half that number being made up by people who do not grow kiwifruit. In addition, drop-in clinics and courses teaching techniques to deal with stress have been run. Community organisations and the local churches have provided incredible support.

If you, your family or someone you work with needs assistance, your first call should be to your GP as they can assist with medication and counselling. There is also the Depression Helpline (8am to midnight) on 0800 111 757, Lifeline on 0800 543 354 and for growers, the Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254. In extreme circumstances the police on 111.

The advice given during the support seminars included using your networks of friends and colleagues, talking about the Psa crisis and encouraging others to talk about it, staying active, the importance of sleeping well, getting time away from the Psa crisis and, most importantly, developing your plan to get out of the crisis. There was a pack of papers and handy information and contact numbers given out at each of the seminars.

Financial planning and managing your relationship with the bank were also part of the seminar series. There is a useful financial planning tool developed by Fruition Horticulture and a panel of financial advocates to assist you manage your bank. If you need this assistance or a copy of the information package handed out at the seminars or a copy of the slides that were used, contact NZKGI's office toll free 0800 232 505 or 07 574 7139 or email [email protected]