Current Paintedapple Moth Operation Not Resuming Today – WEDNESDAY 12 NOVEMBER 2003

The current spring aerial operation against the painted apple moth will NOT resume today – Wednesday 12 November. Forecast rain and high winds this morning are unsuitable conditions for an aerial operation.

Over 4,000-hectares in the spring 6,500-hectare zone were treated yesterday before high winds caused the operation to be suspended. The remaining 2,400-hectares in the Hobsonville, Greenhithe and Beach Haven area and a loop in the two larger blocks in West Auckland will be treated once conditions improve.

Operations are weather dependent and the situation will be closely monitored throughout the morning. A decision will be made later today as to whether the operation can resume tomorrow – Thursday, 13 November.

The public can call the free information line 0800 96 96 96 for status updates or listen to MoreFM (91.8FM) or Newstalk ZB (1080AM). People can also visit the resident’s page at www.maf.govt.nz/paintedapplemoth to register for email or text message updates on the status of the aerial operation.

A map of the 6,500-hectare operation area and up-to-date information about the painted apple moth eradication programme is also available on the website.

Media enquiries: Sally Young 021 888 675

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