Federated Farmers of New Zealand (Inc) President Alistair Polson has urged all New Zealanders to be especially vigilant
about biosecurity with the influx of overseas visitors over the Christmas period.
"Visitors from all over the world will visit New Zealand this Christmas and thousands of kiwis will be returning home,"
said Mr Polson. "Many will travel from the United Kingdom where this year's foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreak took a
terrible toll. Others will come from parts of the world where FMD is present, such as Asia and Africa."
"All New Zealanders hosting overseas visitors have a responsibility to ensure their guests are aware of the vital
importance of complying with New Zealand's border control regulations and protecting New Zealand's biosecurity.
"FMD is estimated to have cost the British economy $30 billion. One serious new pest could threaten our economy, our
health, our jobs and our lifestyle. New Zealand's clean green image, and our flora and fauna are worth protecting and
all New Zealanders have a part to play," Mr Polson concluded.
ENDS