52437 (2025). Scott Willis to the Minister for Biosecurity

52437 (2025). Scott Willis to the Minister for Biosecurity: What community or organisation consultation, if any, has the Minister had in relation to the eradication of yellow-legged hornets?

Hon Andrew Hoggard: I have been informed by my officials that the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has established a Technical Advisory Group (TAG) comprised of New Zealand and international science experts to guide the response strategy. MPI has established contact with several agencies and groups in relation to this response including Kaipatiki Local Board, Iwi, the Department of Conservation, the beekeeping industry, wider Government Industry Agreement (GIA) partners, Auckland Council, and Health New Zealand. I have been informed by my officials that there are Biosecurity New Zealand staff on the ground in key suburbs, and that an information leaflet drop reached 2,344 households. In addition, Biosecurity New Zealand staff have attended four local markets and handed out leaflets to market attendees. Local markets will continue to have Biosecurity New Zealand staff present to raise awareness of the issue.