MPI beefs up baggage x-raying at Dunedin airport

A new biosecurity x-ray machine will help ensure passengers arriving at Dunedin International Airport don’t bring any unwanted pests or diseases into New Zealand.

Installed late last week by the Ministry for Primary Industries, the machine will be used to scan baggage from overseas travellers for plant and animal products that pose biosecurity risk to New Zealand.

It replaces an older machine at the airport.

“The new x-ray is part of the ministry’s ongoing commitment to strengthen New Zealand’s biosecurity system,” says MPI Detection Technology Manager Brett Hickman.

“The new machine is more reliable than the previous unit and will provide improved image quality and functionality. This means border staff will be better equipped to spot biosecurity risk items before they enter New Zealand,” says Hickman.

MPI has now installed 15 new x-ray machines around the country over the past year.

MPI currently owns and operates 23 x-ray units at International Airports, Auckland Mail Centre, Military bases and a trailer mounted mobile x-ray in Auckland.

“X-ray screening is one of a range of biosecurity tools we use to block nasty pests and diseases that could ravage our primary industries and natural environment,” adds Hickman.

Dunedin airport is currently the arrival point for Virgin Australia flights from Brisbane.

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