Psa-V has been found on kiwifruit orchards in Pukekohe, confirming the bacterial vine disease has reached outside of the Bay of Plenty.

The provisional result for Psa-V on a kiwifruit orchard near Pukekohe received last week by Kiwifruit Vine Health Inc has now been confirmed.

KVH has also received results identifying Psa-V on two further orchards in the Pukekohe area.

To view a map showing the Pukekohe priority zone and high risk areas visit www.kvh.org.nz/maps

KVH general manager John Burke says the identification of Psa-V near Pukekohe drives home the point that all New Zealand kiwifruit growing regions are at risk and every grower and packhouse must continue to do all they can to protect their orchards.

A priority zone has been established around the affected orchards.

Kiwifruit growers are encouraged to undertake frequent monitoring of their orchards, report any suspicious symptoms to their packhouse Psa managers for testing, apply protectant sprays and be vigilant around orchard hygiene measures.

Extensive monitoring of all kiwifruit orchards is continuing.

Growers are urged to take all necessary steps to protect their orchards.

See factsheets and protocols on the KVH website www.kvh.org.nz