The New Zealand kiwifruit industry has seemingly suffered a further blow with the news that two orchards in Pukekohe are suspected to have been infected with the deadly Psa-V virus.
Pukekohe, located some 50km south of Auckland, has thus far been free from the disease, which has caused major damage to the industy, mainly in the Bay of Plenty region where the outbreak was frist discovered last year.
With tests underway to confirm the presence of Psa in the two orchards, Kiwifruit Vine Health general manager called the discovery 'very disappointing', stuff.co.nz reported.
'Frankin growers have been vigilant in managing their regional border since the initial outbreak last year,' he said. 'An incursion-tracing report on the two affected orchards is underway. This report may also provide clues as to how long the disease has been present in New Zealand.'
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