2931 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister for Biosecurity

Written Question

Published date: 19 Feb 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	2931 (2026)
Question asked:	03 Feb 2026
Member asking:	Hon Jo Luxton
Portfolio:	Minister for Biosecurity
Minister replying:	Hon Andrew Hoggard
Answer received:	12 Feb 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_02931_2026
Document guid:	6b65a0ed-e086-4232-9682-15edbd83b267

2931 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister for Biosecurity: Have there been any recorded mass die-off events involving Corbicula fluminea in New Zealand’s waterways, and what assessment, if any, has been made of the likelihood of such events occurring?

Hon Andrew Hoggard: I am advised that Earth Sciences New Zealand have recorded some die off events, which are currently under investigation. Earth Sciences New Zealand are undertaking a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment-funded programme of research to determine Corbicula fluminea’s ecological, social, cultural, and economic impacts in New Zealand; predict its spread for early detection and targeted intervention; and develop practical control methods for established populations.