Kauri Dieback Disease
FACTS:
§ Kauri Dieback is caused by a microscopic organism (called Phytophthora agathicidia or PTA) that can be found even in the smallest speck of soil.
§ Whenever the soil is disturbed – by people or large animals walking on the ground – PTA can be spread.
§ In the Waitakere Ranges, which is the largest area of kauri in the Auckland Region, 70% of kauri infections were found along walking tracks.
§ It is obvious that we humans are the agents most responsible for spreading kauri dieback disease.
§ Whenever the soil is disturbed – by people or large animals walking on the ground – PTA can be spread.
§ In the Waitakere Ranges, which is the largest area of kauri in the Auckland Region, 70% of kauri infections were found along walking tracks.
§ It is obvious that we humans are the agents most responsible for spreading kauri dieback disease.
And even worse news…. Every tree that is infected with this disease WILL DIE – both mature and young trees – and we can’t keep a seed bank to grow more kauri when the disease has eventually died out: the seeds are viable for only about four months.
So, is this the end of kauri in New Zealand???
- Not if we take the right action!
Well, what then should we do or not do? Very simply-
§ Keep out from closed areas and closed walking tracks. Be vigilant and obey notices.
§ Keep out from any areas where a rahui has been placed - look out for notices before you enter an area.
§ Clean footwear properly before entering kauri- growing areas: brush off any soil and WASH EVERYTHING that touches the soil, footwear, walking poles, back packs.
§ Brush soil off footwear and use sprays provided EVERY TIME you find them provided along the tracks.
Finally – why do we care if kauri dies out?
§ Kauri is an iconic tree to New Zealanders and is one of the most remarkable trees in the world. It has a special significance to Maori, is a tourist attraction and has played an important part in the history of this country.
§ Kauri trees change the composition of the soil around them and at least 17 other plant species can live in this soil. If kauri die out, all these other plants will die out too.
§ Keep out from any areas where a rahui has been placed - look out for notices before you enter an area.
§ Clean footwear properly before entering kauri- growing areas: brush off any soil and WASH EVERYTHING that touches the soil, footwear, walking poles, back packs.
§ Brush soil off footwear and use sprays provided EVERY TIME you find them provided along the tracks.
Finally – why do we care if kauri dies out?
§ Kauri is an iconic tree to New Zealanders and is one of the most remarkable trees in the world. It has a special significance to Maori, is a tourist attraction and has played an important part in the history of this country.
§ Kauri trees change the composition of the soil around them and at least 17 other plant species can live in this soil. If kauri die out, all these other plants will die out too.
