The spread of pests, weeds and pathogens into Aotearoa is a major cause of the decline of its biological heritage.

Rapid assessments of the potential impact of pathogens are critical in protecting ecosystems from new threats.

Ensuring susceptible plant species survive myrtle rust and kauri dieback.

This investment will incorporate research from across Ngā Rākau Taketake, with an emphasis on novel tools and approaches.

To enhance community engagement and raise the profile of science, we support three flagship sites – areas that showcase to the public research done by our Challenge parties.

Looking at the role environmental factors play on disease expression and severity, pathogen spread and establishment, as well as investigating plant pathogen genomes.

Management of non-native fish may be the answer to safeguarding freshwater taonga (treasured) species in our waterways.

A bilingual app that detects hosts of myrtle rust is the first in a suite of mobile technologies being planned to help New Zealanders report suspected biosecurity threats.

Mātauranga Māori based solutions for kauri dieback and myrtle rust

Developing standardised measures to quantify the impact both kauri dieback and myrtle rust are having on the wider ecosystem.

Selected native plant extracts may be able to attract and kill the spores of Phytophthora agathidicida – the pathogen causing kauri dieback, according to researchers.

Large-scale eradication may be in store for the humble wasp – a species responsible for one of the worst pest problems in Aotearoa.

A community-led social science programme is bringing together communities to help save Aotearoa’s iconic kauri tree.

Traditional Māori knowledge and cultural solutions may be the key to combating the serious fungal disease myrtle rust.