Kiwifruit Vine Health has confirmed that an orchard in Coromandel is positive for the kiwifruit vine disease PSA, as per a report revealed newly.

In fact, more than 1,300 kiwifruit orchards located in south Auckland, Bay of Plenty as well as Waikato have been containing the disease. Whenuakite is an addition to the same, which has also been confirmed four Gold9 vines as having PSA-V on Wednesday during a second laboratory test.

Though, none other orchards in that region have been discovered having the same. But, Whenuakite’s growers are being suggested to thoroughly monitor their orchards, while coming up with any wary symptoms at an urgent basis.

The group advises them that they should follow a protective spray programme, implementing it honestly. Besides, concerns about the disease have led experts to introduce a control zone as well. It has been found that the same extends up to some 10km so that the infection remains within that area.

Barry O'Neil, KVH Chief Executive, affirmed, "Since being identified with Psa-V, the affected and adjoining vines in this Gold9 orchard have been removed and disposed of". KVH is now reviewing growers' referendum over a national PSA-V pest management plan that would probably give legal powers under the Biosecurity Act so that management of risks and protection of orchards is ensured.