Myrtle rust found at Palmerston North's Esplanade

Monday, 19 March 2018

Manawatū residents are being asked to watch out for myrtle rust (file photo).

Myrtle rust disease has been found in Palmerston North.

The Ministry of Primary Industries said the contagious plant fungi was found on a young ramarama tree close to the busy Victoria Esplanade park, which runs along the western bank of the Manawatū River in Palmerston North. Attempts to contain it began immediately.

Ministry of Primary Industries staff collect samples to test for myrtle rust in Taranaki (file photo). . Myrtle rust field staff maintain biosecurity protocols while collecting samples of potentially infected plants.

'The infected plant will be removed and securely disposed of,' said ministry myrtle rust spokeswoman Dr Catherine Duthie.

A surveillance team will also check all properties within 200 metres of the plant, looking for any other signs of infection.

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The disease 'severely' damages plants from the myrtle family, which include pōhutukawa, mānuka, rātā, ramarama and lilly pilly. Initially, it was feared feijoa trees could also be affected, but a ministry study has since found this is unlikely.

'Hopefully, we have found it in this region early, which would give us a chance of trying to eliminate it or at least slow down the spread there,' Duthie said.

'It is disheartening that myrtle rust has been detected in another region, but it is consistent with the expected infection pattern.'

Myrtle rust has spread through the Pacific, from Central and South America, throughout the past 20 years.

Since the first mainland New Zealand finds of the fungus in Kerikeri in May last year, it has been found at 409 sites in six regions.

Duthie said Manawatū residents can help keep an eye on the spread by checking their plants.

'At this time of year, the fungus is still in its sporulation, or spreading, stage. This means it is very visible.

'Look on either side of the leaves and new shoots for any sign of a bright yellow, powdery eruption. Some leaves could also be buckled or twisted or look diseased, with dry pustules that are grey or brown.'

Duthie said the spores are easily spread by brushing against the plant, so he warned people not to touch plants while checking them.

Palmerston North City Council parks and property manager John Brenkley said the find was 'concerning', but the council was supporting the ministry containment and monitoring programme.

'Visitors to the Esplanade may notice MPI staff in protective clothing surveying the trees, as is standard practice for this particular response.'

If suspicious material is found, people can call the biosecurity line on 0800 80 99 66.