Dissemination of biosecurity information for passengers travelling to pest-free islands in the Hauraki Gulf. Preliminary report

Abstract

This report aims to measure the effectiveness of biosecurity information dissemination within the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park (HGMP). Passengers visiting pest-free islands within the HGMP may not be practising recommended preventative biosecurity measures that stop accidental pest incursions. Passengers may not follow preventative biosecurity steps due to ignorance of the islands pest-free status or lack of knowledge about recommended biosecurity practice. Previous campaigns have endeavoured to educate visitors about biosecurity and protecting pest-free islands, but there is a lack of evidence about their efficacy or how many people the biosecurity information is reaching. A survey of passengers on route to pest-free islands is proposed to measure how successful these campaigns are and where targeted biosecurity information may be needed.