2928 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister for Biosecurity

2928 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister for Biosecurity: What is the scale and geographic coverage of the current gear-contamination prevention campaign for Corbicula fluminea, and how is its effectiveness measured?

Hon Andrew Hoggard: I am advised that Biosecurity New Zealand runs an annual campaign for Corbicula fluminea (invasive clams) as well as other pests. The campaign encourages users of lakes and rivers to undertake the Check, Clean, Dry protocol when moving between waterways. The campaign is targeted to lake and river users across New Zealand, with focus on the Waikato region, Rotorua Lakes, and Lake Rotomanu in Taranaki for Corbicula fluminea. The effectiveness of the campaign is measured through campaign metrics as well as consumer research, which provides measurement regarding recall of the campaign and actions taken as a result of the advertising. Results indicate strong uptake and a willingness to change behaviour to prevent spread of the clam.