Kauri Ora: Off-track in Kauri forests

Kauri are threatened by a soil-borne pathogen called Phytophthora agathidicida (PA for short), which causes the fatal condition known as kauri dieback disease.

This document is a best-practice guideline for people undertaking work off-track in Kauri forests, to mitigate the introduction and spread of PA.

The objectives for this guideline are as follows:

• Hygiene and avoidance practices are maximised when working in Kauri forests, so PA is not spread as a result of off-track work.
• Pre-planning and risk assessment which are essential to protect Kauri is carried out as a fundamental part of the work.
• Standard operating procedures related to off-track work are clear and can be effectively implemented.

National plan to protect Kauri

In August 2022, a National Pest Management Plan was launched to help protect Kauri from PA The National Plan includes rules that apply to anyone who grows Kauri, goes into Kauri forests, or lives or works around Kauri. 

Key rules for off-track use

Obligation to clean items

If you are going off track or onto a track where you will touch the forest floor, you must clean all visible soil and organic matter off items that may touch the ground, both before you enter and when you leave the forest. Items considered a risk include tools, cars, bikes, sticks, shoes, gloves etc (Rule 8).

Obligation to use hygiene stations

You must clean items that come in contact with the ground at each cleaning station you pass. The hygiene station will require you to clean using items provided, such as brushes and disinfectants (Rule 9).