The annual Whitianga Scallop Festival will not be affected by reports of a parasitic virus being detected in some scallop beds.

Earlier this year the Ministry of Primary Industries took samples of scallop populations around Great Barrier and Mercury islands in the Coromandel which found some had been affected by Perkinsus olseni.

Organisers of the annual Whitianga Scallop Festival say it will not be affected by reports of a parasitic virus being detected in some scallop beds. Photo: TCDC

This parasite can infect molluscs and is found in other shellfish species around the North Island and the top of the South Island. It affects shellfish development but doesn't pose a food safety risk.

Festival organiser Linda Simonsen says they've been in ongoing talks with scallop suppliers.

'It is business as usual," says Linda. 'Our main supplier takes his scallop quota from outside the affected area.”

The festival will feature more than 60 cuisine stands, plus seafood cooking demonstrations from iconic chefs including Ray McVinnie and Masterchef 2014 winners Karena and Kasey Bird.

Linda says ticket sales are tracking well ahead of last year, which is extremely positive.

'You don't want to miss out on the delectable scallops along with other tasty morsels that will be available at this year's festival.

'The festival is going to be a great event with a variety of foods, live music and cooking demonstrations.”

The MPI will continue monitoring the wellbeing of the three areas and the overall situation. For more information contact the MPI on 029 894 0328 or email: [email protected]

The Whitianga Scallop Festival is on at the Whitianga Marina Reserve on Saturday, September 19.

Tickets are available through from www.scallopfestival.co.nz or www.eventfinder.co.nz and from The Lost Spring Shop in Whitianga.