B3 · Better Border Biosecurity
Science to protect New Zealand's plants

Better Border Biosecurity (B3) is a large cooperative science programme researching ways to reduce the rate at which new unwanted organisms are becoming established in NZ.

New Zealand's geographical isolation means that the country is free from many of the pests that damage crop plants, disrupt natural ecosystems, and endanger human health elsewhere in the world.

The programme aims to help maintain that advantage by improving the ability to predict, intercept, and eradicate new pests, weeds, and diseases of plants before they become established in New Zealand.

Can Better Border Biosecurity make a difference?
Who will benefit from the research?
Who are the research partners?
Key stakeholders
Funding partner

Can Better Border Biosecurity make a difference?

If nothing is done, more than 500 new pests are expected to become established in New Zealand over the next decade at a cost to the economy, in direct and ongoing control costs, of $921 million.

If the rate at which unwanted pests and disease are stopped at the border improves by just 1% per year for ten years, then savings of some $16 million are anticipated. If improved surveillance and eradication reduces the number of new pests that become permanently established in New Zealand by a similar amount, then about $96 million might be saved in terms of the direct impact of those pests and the cost of mitigation measures.

Who will benefit from the research?

Pests, weeds, and plant diseases affect all of New Zealand's important primary industries (agriculture, horticulture, cropping, and forestry), as well as some indigenous ecosystems and public health. Indeed, border biosecurity is a truly cross-sectoral issue, and its failure affects everyone.

Who are the research partners?

Key stakeholders

Funding partner

The NZ Foundation for Research, Science and Technology is contributing $74 million over 12 years.