Government reviews 'disastrous' Kauri Dieback Programme1 NEWS As part of its plan to fight the disease, the Auckland Council's using a chopper to fly gravel into at-risk tracks. The kauri dieback response will also be included in a new national pest management programme to be developed by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). Kauri dieback, or Phytophthora agathidicida, is caused by a microscopic spore in the soil that attacks the roots and trunks of kauri. CHRIS McKEEN/Stuff Kauri dieback is proving to be a disaster for NZ's native tree population. The Kauri Dieback Programme, which included a five-year plan for research, surveillance, treatment and containment, launched in 2009.

Source: Stuff December 17, 2017 05:14 UTC