Specialist Phytophthora Research: Biology, pathology, ecology and detection of PA 

Objectives
Research on pathology, biology and ecology of PA. 

Outcomes
Demonstrated that P. agathidicida can form oospores in the roots of kauri and non-target, native host plants, and identified that Agathis robusta (Queensland Kauri) is resistant to P. agathidicida. Identified P. multivora and P. cinnamomi around KD affected tree, and the presence of P. cinnamomi in the roots (at depth of 75 cm) of kauri with collar rot caused by P. agathidicida.  Calculated rate of spread of KD at established Huia Transect. Species concept for P. agathidicida and resolution of Clade 5 Phytophthora species (Weir et al. 2015; Phytotaxon), PCR primer designed, and extraction protocol from soil and tissue samples developed (Than et al. 2013, Forest Pathology); Research visit to Taiwan searching for P. agathidicida and P. lateralis in cloud forest of Taiwan (Webber et al. 2011 Forest Pathology). 

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Contract Number
11927

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Phytophthora agathidicida - Overview

Outcomes
General overview of the pathogen. Outlining morphology, origin/genetics, identification, history, impacts and symptoms. 

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Contract Number
N/A

Research Status
N/A

 Link to report

Approaching the origins of Phytophthora taxon Agathis

Objectives
Outlines intended approach involving collection of isolates across a range of infested kauri and combine phylogenetic analysis with morphological and physiological data and using microsatellite analysis infer whether PA is an introduced organism

Outcomes
Small genetic differences between species in Clade 5. 

Research Provider
Landcare Research

Research Status
Completed

Link to report 

 

Exotic origin investigation

Objectives
Testing soil samples taken from beneath Agathis species in New Caledonia that were showing similar symptoms to kauri dieback. 

Outcomes
Testing confirmed that the pathogen causing the symptoms is not PA but a closely related species.

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Research Status
Completed

 

A taxonomic revision of Phytophthora Clade 5 including two new species, Phytophthora agathidicida and P. cocois. 

Objectives
A detailed morphological study and phylogenetic analysis consisting of 8 genetic loci was conducted to verify whether these isolates belonged to a separate species.

Outcomes
Formal description of Phytophthora agathidicida. 

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Assay of historical soil samples

Objectives
To determine the length of time the pathogen can survive in soil in the absence of host material and also to inform the storage requirements of soil samples for lab diagnosis.

Outcomes
Soils collected and stored can be tested after a period of months or even years without compromising the isolation of the pathogen. From this study we can speculate that PA could potentially survive in soil for many years, even in the absence of a suitable host.

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research

Contract Number
32294

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Pathogenicity of four Phytophthora species on kauri: in vitro and glasshouse trials

Objectives
Soil surveys to detect PA, targeting sites with kauri trees showing disease symptoms, detected a number of other Phytophthora species (Waipara et al. 2013). P. cinnamomi, P. multivora and P. cryptogea were particularly common. In vitro and glasshouse studies were carried out to determine the relative pathogenicity of these four species, prior to investigating potential interactions among these species in the field.

Outcomes
When excised leaves were inoculated with colonized agar plugs, all four Phytophthora species produced lesions. Lesion advance was significantly slower with P. cinnamomi, P. multivora and P. cryptogea than with PA. Similar results were obtained with inoculated excised twigs. The growth rate of PA through live kauri twig tissue was similar to that on V8 agar.

Potted 2-year-old kauri seedlings were trunk-inoculated. Small lesions (mostly <10 mm over 4 months) appeared with Phytophthora cinnamomi, P. multivora or P. cryptogea, no trees died, and plant growth was suppressed only slightly. When PA-inoculated, lesions spread rapidly, trunks were girdled, and all trees died within 4-6 weeks. All kauri seedlings died within 10 weeks when soil was inoculated with PA. Feeder root damage occurred following soil inoculation with P. cinnamomi, P. multivora or P. cryptogea, and the respective Phytophthora species were readily isolated from root lesions, but there were no plant deaths.

Results suggest that PA is a highly aggressive pathogen on kauri while relatively, the other three species are weaker pathogens

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Identify the role, diversity and impact of kauri mycorrhizae on PA infection. 

Objectives
Investigate the Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) community within symptomatic and asymptomatic kauri as well as other fungal endophytes.

Outcomes
There were differences in the AMF community between two asymptomatic sites, as well as differences between summer and winter (seasonality effects). There was also a difference in the AMF community between symptomatic and asymptomatic kauri trees. 

Research Provider
University of Auckland
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research

Research Status
Completed

Han, V. 2015. Metagenomic characterisation of the mycorrhizal community of healthy and diseased Agathis australis. University of Auckland. MSc thesis. Unpub. 

 

Kauri leaf litter differences

Objectives
Metagenomics analysis of kauri leaf litter to examine differences between healthy and diseased kauri.

Outcomes
Pending publication

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research
University of Auckland

Research Status
Completed

 

The effects of PTA on kauri forest ecosystem processes.

Objectives
Ecosystem processes in Phytophthora taxon Agathis (PTA) affected Kauri stands 

Outcomes
Found changes in surrounding regenerative vegetation; litter fall quantity and composition. Decreased reproductive capacity of infected kauri; Differences in temperature sensitivity indicates a change in root vs microbial respiration; No differences in soil CO2 efflux suggests that roots still respire and/or accelerated microbial activity in medium-high infected sites.

Research Provider
University of Auckland

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Undertake taxonomic and ecological assessments to determine presence of bioindicators of forest health

Objectives
To determine whether other species in kauri forest ecosystems are also susceptible to infection by P. agathidicida

Outcomes
Forest composition varied between infected and non-infected stands. Detached leaf assays suggest lesion growth occurred on 6 native species of which reisolation detected PA in 3 of the 6 species (rewarewa; mingimingi; kauri grass). Visual symptoms occurred on Tanekaha when soil inoculated., however was not a significant impact. 

Research Provider
University of Auckland

Research Status
Completed

Link to report
Ryder, J. M. (2016). What is the host range of Phytophthora agathidicida (causal agent of kauri dieback disease) in New Zealand? The University of Auckland. Masters Thesis.

  

The arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonising kauri

Objectives
Identify arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi community of kauri.

Outcomes
Representatives of five families of multiple Glomeromycota were identified. This study is the first to demonstrate the multiple Glomeromycota lineages associated with A. australis.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 
University of Auckland

Link to report

Cultural Health Indicator Pilot Project - Phase 4

Objectives
Using citizen science (mana whenua) to assess and measure health, resilience and disease status of kauri forests using Cultural Health Indicators - 3 year field monitoring. This is the final stage of a 4 stage project dating back to 2011.

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
He Puna Marama Trust
Environs Holdings Trust
Nga Maunga Whakahii o Kaipara
Whangaroa Papa Hapu

Contract Number
18655; 18869; 18870; 18871

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: Sep 2021

 

Cultural Health Indicator Pilot Project - Phase 3

Objectives
A pilot study to test the  principles and practicalities of using the Kauri Cultural Health Indicator (CHI) Monitoring Framework with regard to Kauri Dieback.

Outcomes
A number of recommendations were made to improve the framework and lists some constraints that are to be considered during Phase 4.

Research Provider
He Puna Marama Trust

Contract Number
17874

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Cultural Health Indicator Monitoring Framework- Phase 2

Objectives
Development of a monitoring framework structured around indicator species and cultural elements such as atua domains and other key values. The framework serves as a guide for collection and analysis of monitoring data and information for kauri ngāhere.

Outcomes
Framework developed guided by overarching values of Whakapapa and Ngahere parameters and based on nga atua domains. Incorporates tikanga and wairuatanga protocols and provides an overall measure of the mauri of ngahere. Methodology involves a step by step process outlining options and recommendations for community engagement, site selection, team selection and initial wananga to customise the framework and methodology.

Research Provider
Repo Consultancy Ltd.
Chetham Consulting Ltd.

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Cultural Health Indicators - Phase 1

Objectives
To conduct a literature review of national and international examples of cultural indicator research, followed by an extensive interview process with a number of cultural experts in which a robust set of values and indicators for kauri were identified. 

Outcomes
Values were documented to guide the indicators and recommendations for a monitoring programme. Values that have informed the report focus on IP, whakapapa, ngahere, whangata te mauri/hau o te kauri, species capability indicators and whanaungatanga. Process was developed to identify the indicators with a list of indicators documented. 

Research Provider
Repo Consultancy Ltd.

Contract Number
15170

Research Status
Completed 

Link to report

Cultural Impact Assessment

Objectives
Cultural Impact Assessment of Kauri Dieback

Outcomes
Outlines the values, impacts, adverse effects and other related information to inform Joint Agency policies on working with tangata whenua as partners and incorporate values associated with their relationship with kauri. 

Research Provider
Repo Consultancy Ltd.

Contract Number
12278

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Cultural Effects Assessment (Te Roroa)

Objectives
An effects assessment of the threat poses to Te Roroa, their values, taonga and their relationships. To conduct a pilot CEA on Te Roroa prior to undertaking a full CEA to identify the nature of cultural effects of kauri dieback and the response to it.

Outcomes
A brief description of the taonga, the iwi and the disease. Relationship of Te Roroa and Taonga documented as well as effects assessment of cultural, bio-physical, economic and social. The analysis used the following framework tona hauora; tona hautu; tona putake; tona wananga; tona rapunga.

Research Provider
Wakawhenua

Contract Number
12074

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Rongoa Ngahere - Part 1 - Scoping Exercise

Objectives
The first stage into identifying traditional Maori medicines (rongoa) which could be used to improve kauri and kauri forest health and to reduce the impact of kauri dieback. Conducted through a series of wananga. 

Outcomes
Three products were recommended for field trials.

Research Provider
Nga Tirairaka o Ngati Hine

Contract Number
17873

Research Status
Completed

 

Rongoa - Engagement Framework

Objectives
Development of an engagement framework using tikanga to identify rongoa as an exemplar. The development of an engagement framework will enable sharing and alignment of mātauranga Maori with western practices to provide a mechanism for joint participatory decision making in the field of environmental management. 

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
ChrisP Ltd.

Contract Number
17990

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: Nov 2018

 

PA Response Research Projects - Detection of Phytophthora taxon Agathis (PTA)

Objectives
To develop a methods that will (1) optimise the detection of PA in soil samples; (2) be robust and verifiable method to collect soil samples in a cost-effective manner (3) be robust and verifiable to collect lesion samples and to maximise detection probability in a cost effective manner; (4) determine whether there is a set of field symptoms that allows for reliable diagnosis of PA in the field, and if so describe these symptoms.

Outcomes
Development of a robust soil baiting method to detect PA in soil samples and a soil sampling methodology to maximise probability of detection developed. A method to collect lesion samples developed also. There is not a set of definitive field symptoms that allows for reliable visual diagnosis of PA in the field, however there is a strong association with gummosis at the tree base and the presence of PA. 

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research
Scion

Contract Number
11213; 11215; 12093

Research Status
Completed

Link to report 

 

Diagnostic tools to detect PA in soil

Objectives
Comparison of methods used (bioassay vs molecular) to detect PA from soil samples

Outcomes
Results indicates that quantitative PCR is a more sensitive method for the detection of PA than baiting. We also confirm that DNA sequence analysis using primers can distinguish between Phytophthora species that are closely related to PA. Combination of baiting for Phytophthora with DNA sequencing methods reduces time to screen individual samples.

Research Provider
University of Auckland

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Real-time PCR vs soil bioassay

Objectives
Comparing the efficacy of real-time PCR versus conventional soil bioassay for detection of P. agathidicida from soil samples

Outcomes
The overall rate of detection between real-time PCR and bioassays was very similar and one technique over the other could not be recommended.

Research Provider
Scion

Contract Number
17101

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Real-time PCR as a diagnostic tool.

Objectives
A real-time PCR assay based on TaqMan chemistry for the specific detection of PA

Outcomes
Report suggests that TaqMan real-time PCR assay is a more time-efficient method for detection of PA in soil.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Research Status
Completed

 Link to report

Development of sample protocol for field collection of soil samples for detection of PA

Objectives
Soil sampling programme developed to optimise the likelihood of recovering PA if its present. 

Outcomes
Sampling protocol developed.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research
Scion

Contract Number
11895

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Aerial Surveillance to detect kauri dieback in New Zealand

Outcomes
Outlines a methodology for aerial photographic surveillance of kauri dieback. 

Research Provider
Auckland Council
Plant & Food Research
Wild Earth Media

Research Status
N/A

Link to report

 

Surveillance methods to determine kauri dieback distribution

Objectives
Methodology used to determine the distribution and rate of spread on private land in Auckland. 

Outcomes
Surveillance between 2008 and 2013 found kauri dieback widely distributed in Auckland Region. Predominately in Waitakere Ranges and in rural fragments across Rodeny and Kaipara. Approx. 11,500 ha pf private land estimated to be contaminated. Also outlines other pathogens found.

Research Provider
Auckland Council
Plant & Food Research

Contract Number
N/A

Research Status
N/A

Link to report 

 

Analysis of kauri dieback soil and tissue samples

Objectives
Supply analysis and diagnostic services for soil and tissue samples to detect the presence of PA. 

Outcomes
Outlines soil sampling results.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research
Scion
Plant & Food Research

Contract Number
12239

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Link to report 2

 

Detection of PA in kauri wood

Objectives
Characterise the presence of PA in bark and cambium; and what depth and height. Is PA present in the leaves, branches and reproductive structures?

Outcomes
Methodology and approach is outlined for further research

Research Provider
Auckland Council
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research

Contract Number
N/A

Research Status
Poster only

Link to report

 

Epidemiology Scoping Exercise

Objectives
To review current KDP field data to determine how useful the data is to (1) inform how robust our current detection techniques are; and (2) determine if there are environmental factors that influence disease spread. 

Outcomes
A number of gaps were identified from current field data i.e.  a lack of a comparison group and no assessment of test performance. A lack of a comparison makes it difficult to identify risk factors. In addition, current data does not inform sensitivity and specificity of testing procedure. 

Research Provider
Massey University 

Contract Number
17735

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Stream-based surveillance

Objectives
Determine stream-based sampling approach and its applicability for detecting the presence of Phytophthora species in kauri forest. 

Outcomes
No PA detected but other Phytophthora species were. Sampling demonstrates proof of concept. 

Research Provider
University of Auckland
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research

Research Status
Completed

Link to report
For the full MSC Please contact University of Auckland

 

Detector Dog Research 

Objectives
The use of detector dogs in PA surveillance. 

Outcomes
The dog was trialled initially using PA cultured oat grains along with three control treatments. Initial results indicate 87% sensitivity on first attempt and 100% on second attempt. Specificity was 96%. Further training in more complex situations was cancelled due to the dog's inability to focus on the samples and commands. Current research results are unavailable at this time. 

Research Provider
Auckland Council

Research Status
Ongoing

Link to report

 

Remote Sensing

Objectives
To distinguish between kauri and non- kauri and also to measure the state of health of kauri using LiDAR and Hyperspectral sensors. 

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
University of Canterbury

Contract Number
17766; 18269; 10000

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: Nov 2018

 

Waitakere Surveillance Analysis

Objectives
Investigation into the distribution of kauri dieback, and implications for its future management, within the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

Outcomes
Increase in number of infected trees from 7.9% in 2011 to 18.95% infection in 2016. Current measures are not working and human vectoring identified as main risk to spreading the disease.

Research Provider
Auckland Council

Contract Number
17719

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Human vectoring and PTA hygiene treatments

Objectives
What Phytophthora species are collected in stations? Is PTA able to be transferred via footwear to trees? Is Trigene II Advance able to kill/suppress other Phytophtora species?

Outcomes
Phytophthora are still viable in grate soils, even after one year. A number of Phytophtora speices were detected on boots from muddy tracks. TriGene Advance II completely suppresses Phytophthora species.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research
Auckland Council

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Historical Forestry Pathways Project 

Objectives
To look at the role historical forestry operations (e.g. kauri plantations, nurseries, trials, practices, logging) play in the introduction & spread of kauri dieback and the associated GIS shapefiles to inform management decisions. 

Outcomes
A likely entry pathway into NZ could not be identified from current information sources. Waipoua Forest Nursery likely spread PA to other plantation sites, however majority of plantations sourced from Waipoua are free of PA. Kauri logging practices likely exacerbated spread whereas other practices such as staff movements, engineering works, TSI practices showed little anecdotal evidence and/or field observations of spreading PA. 

Research Provider
John Beachman

Contract Number
17678

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Whangapoua Vectoring Report

Objectives
To look at the role historical forestry operations play in the spread of kauri dieback in the Whangapoua region.

Outcomes
Results outline the risk profiles associated with forestry operations. It is likely the disease was introduced to the area through activities associated with the development of the Whangapoua State Forest, but there is no evidence of that introduction, just the geographic association of the disease with forestry development and operations. 

Research Provider
John Beachman

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Information Gathering: Plantation History I & II

Objectives
Series of interviews conducted of people who have worked in kauri forests and nurseries from 1960's and close association with Waipoua Forest. Information collated to ascertain any patterns with PA distribution which will assist in better understanding of possible mode of chronology and spread of PA.

Outcomes
Information unavailable.

Research Provider
Wakawhenua

Contract Number
15010; 12076

Research Status
Completed

 

Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence: Feral pigs as vectors of soil-borne pathogens

Objectives
This study examined the potential for feral pigs to act as vectors of PA. Soil on trotters and snouts were tested.

Outcomes
19 species of pathogens were detected in the soil on trotters and snouts (457 pigs) however no PA was isolated from the samples. Bayesian Probability modelling suggest that there is a 35-90% probability that pigs do vector PA and estimated a sample size of 1000 which is required to prove a negative result. The report concludes that pigs cannot be ruled out as a vector. 

Research Provider
University of Auckland

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Ingestion of infected roots by feral pigs

Objectives
Testing survival and transmission of Phytophthora agathidicida through pig gut passage and in pig faeces

Outcomes
Viable PA from a kauri root retrieved from captive-fed pig faeces, providing proof of concept that pigs can internally vector PA. However only one positive was detected in a large sample size. No PA  was detected in any of the 184 wild-caught feral pig stomachs. Ingestion of contaminated material by feral pigs is probably a minor pathway for PA spread. Demonstrated that it is possible for P. agathidicida to survive the pig gut, however it probably occurs only in root fragments that pass through very rapidly. Transmission of P. agathidicida in infected soil on the outside of pigs is probably a greater risk.

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research
Auckland Council

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Alternative Host Project

Objectives
Previous laboratory research (Ryder & Burns 2016; Bellgard et al. 2013) found that a number of native plants could potentially act as hosts for PA. This project is required to validate results found in the laboratory by undergoing field trails of a number of native non-kauri plant species that grow in association with kauri. If proven, then the results is likely to have implications on how we manage the disease as it creates a potential major vector pathway to disease spread. 

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
Scion

Contract Number
17736

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: Sep 2022

Ecology of PA Control Tools

Objectives
Investigate the ecology of PA control tools.  Phase 1: In Vitro Proof of Concept. Proof of concept to determine the effectiveness of PA against PA. Phase 2: Seedling trials:  Kauri seedlings that have been inoculated with PA are treated with PA.

Outcomes
Trunk injections showed the most promise whereas Phosphorous acid, applied as a soil drench or foliar spray, was less effective. Phosphite injections via field trials were recommended. 

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Contract Number
11932

Research Status
Completed

Link to report
Link to Report 2
Link to report 3

 

Phosphite Research Part 1: Phosphite Injection trials in kauri forest

Objectives
Five years of field trails looking at the efficacy of injecting juvenile kauri trees with phosphite to slow the onset of the disease and hence reduce disease impact on kauri.

Outcomes
Evidence from forest trials on ‘ricker’ sized kauri trees suggests that trunk injection with phosphite is suppressing the activity of PA within infected trees. Almost all lesions on phosphite treated trees have stopped expanding and appear to have healed. The longevity of treatment efficacy and the required frequency of treatment for long-term control is yet to be determined. The potential phytotoxicity of phosphite remains a concern, and this will have to be monitored carefully so that rates can be optimised. 

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Contract Number
15636; 17682

Research Status
Completed

Link to report
Link to report 2
Link to report 3

 

Phosphite Research Part 2: Large Tree Treatments

Objectives
Phosphite trails looking at the efficacy of injecting large mature trees with phosphite to slow the onset of the disease and hence reduce disease impact on kauri.

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Contract Number
18061

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: Jun 2021

Link to report

Link to report 2

 

Phosphite Research Part 3: Trunk Sprays and Lower Injection Rates

Objectives
To determine efficacy of using phosphite as a trunk spray on disease symptoms as well as investigating lower injection rates on toxicity and efficacy.  

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Contract Number
18062

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: May 2019

Link to report
Link to report 2
Link to report 3

 

Phosphite Barriers

Objectives
Undertake a scoping exercise to assess the feasibility of using phosphite as a barrier treatment to contain disease foci and to prevent incursions of PA into new areas. Approach consist of a foliar spray and inject all plants/trees where applicable to create a barrier or buffer around an infected site or to protect disease-free areas.

Outcomes
A number of potential barriers/uncertainties (e.g. technical, financial and political) would need to be addressed for the research to be successful. High up-font costs and likely duration of between 10 to 15 years are also factors to be considered.

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Contract Number
17802

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Phosphite Toxicity & Impact - Water Injections (Phase 1)

Objectives
Research involving factors that may influence phosphite treatment efficacy and the potential impacts phosphite may cause due to trunk injections. 

Outcomes
There is no evidence that season, time of day or weather conditions will prevent uptake of phosphite injected into kauri trunks.  Thus treatment may be possible at any time of the year or time of day. It is yet to be determined whether seasonal or other timing factors influence the efficacy of phosphite treatment or the incidence/expression of phosphite toxicity symptoms. Bark cracking may be an issue. Monitoring is ongoing. 

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Contract Number
17803

Research Status
Current

Link to report

Link to report 2

 

Phosphite Twig Assay

Objectives
To find a diagnostic/predictive tool that will determine when phosphite-injected trees require re-treatment. 

Outcomes
Excised kauri leaf and twig assays not a useful indicator to determine in planta concentrations of phosphite in treated kauri trees due to the wide variability of lesion growth and failure to distinguish between treated and non-treated trees.

Research Provider
Plant & Food Research 

Contract Number
17850

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Oospore Deactivation - Desktop Review: Alkaline-based solution

Objectives
A focused desktop literature review to identify research opportunities for developing an effective pH-based alkaline solution that is practical and can be operationalised to deactivate oospores of Phytophthora agathidicida. This follows on from the research carried out by Dick and Kimberley (2013, unpub.), which showed that exposure of P. agathidicida oospores to a pH level of 9 for 24 hours reduced viability to levels below all other treatments, and that there were no viable oospores after 48 hours’ exposure to pH 9 or pH 10.

Outcomes
A number of alkaline-based solutions have been used around the world in the fight against plant diseases. However, the caustic nature of alkaline-based chemicals presents a challenge for off-label use of p.H based products in kauri forest. Environmental and non-target impacts, human health implications make p.H based solutions inappropriate for the management of spot infestations in kauri forest. Spot spray treatments in greenhouse/semi-industrial settings; in-situ water treatment using pond systems and the use of lime in certain situations are possible opportunities for further research.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Contract Number
18883

Research Status
Completed

Link to Report

 

Oospore Deactivation - Temperature treatment for soil, potting mix and kauri seedlings

Objectives
Previous lab research has found temperatures >50C can kill PA oospores when exposed for a few hours. This project continues with this theme in developing temperature treatment protocols to kill oospores in nursery plants and associated potting mix and soil.

Outcomes
Preliminary results only. In vitro studies so far have found that Oospores did not survive exposure for more than 24 h at 40C or above, and mycelia did not survive when exposed to -14C for 24 h or more, or 35C or higher for 24 h or more. Final report due April 2019.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research
Plant & Food Research

Contract Number
17748

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: Apr 2019

Link to report

 

Deactivation of Oospores of Phytophthora Taxon Agathis - Phase 2

Objectives
To validate research done by Dick & Kimberley (2013) oospore deactivation study. Assess the effectiveness of oospore deactivation by heating. 

Outcomes
Heating contaminated materials above 50C for prolonged periods will substantially reduce the risk of spreading PA. Oospores that are cultured in the lab need careful consideration for extrapolation to naturally contaminated soil, water and plant material. q.PCR is not recommended as a method to infer oospore viability. 

Research Provider
Scion

Contract Number
17100

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Deactivation of oospores of Phytophthora taxon Agathis - Phase 1

Objectives
Research into determining the efficacy of a variety of treatments to deactivate oospores of PA.

Outcomes
Trigene, saltwater immersion, metam sodium were ineffective against PA oospores, whereas a p.H of 9 or 10 after 48hr exposure and heat temperatures of 60-70C applied for 4 hrs were effective against oospores. 

Research Provider
Scion

Contract Number
15775

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Hygiene methods to limit PA spread

Objectives
Assess the efficacy of current hygiene methods to suppress and control PA. 

Outcomes
Virkon and Janola significantly reduced oospore viability whereas Trigene, Phytoclean and Citricidal had little effect. All products effective against mycelial and zoospore except Citricidal. Virkon and Janola have limited application because of corrosivity and bleaching of clothing. Trigene II Advance is a suitable disinfectant for controlling PA.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Contract Number
11213

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Link to report 2

 

Human vectoring and PTA hygiene treatments

Objectives
What Phytophthora species are collected in stations? Is PTA able to be transferred via footwear to trees? Is Trigene II Advance able to kill/suppress other Phytophtora species?

Outcomes
Phytophthora are still viable in grate soils, even after one year. A number of Phytophtora speices were detected on boots from muddy tracks. TriGene Advance II completely suppresses Phytophthora species.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research
Auckland Council

Research Status
Completed

 Link to report

A study to evaluate the effectiveness of various commercially available agri-products as potential biological control agents of kauri dieback

Objectives
Undertake laboratory trials testing of natural products and biological control agents to determine their effectiveness against kauri dieback. 

Outcomes
A number of biological control products showed promise in showing inhibitory effects against PA. 

Contract Number
17733

Research Status
Completed.
Report under review.

 

Biocontrol: Desktop Review

Objectives
A desktop review is required to inform whether applying biocontrol measures is feasible, pragmatic and whether biocontrol can be operationalised. 

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Contract Number
19207

Research Status
Current.
Completion Date: Dec 2018

 

Biological Control Field Trials on private land

Objectives
Using private landowners to test the efficacy of a number of biocontrol products against PA.

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
Auckland Council

Research Status
Ongoing

 

Treatment Product Screening Service

Objectives
To undertake a literature review to determine the effectiveness of products recommended by members of the public and commercial operators in the treatment against Phytophthora species and Phytophthora agathidicida. Treatment products include, biological control, natural treatments or remedies, chemical agents as well as products that improve the overall health of kauri.

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
Scion

Contract Number
19377

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: October 2021

Healthy Trees Healthy Future Programme

Objectives
To establish enabling technology platform to advance knowledge of pathogen-host interactions. This will underpin knowledge around understanding the mechanisms to inform genetic tolerance of kauri to PA with the intent to develop a greenhouse screening tool to identify kauri tolerance lines. 

Outcomes
Pending

Research Provider
Scion

Contract Number
17520

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: Sep 2019

For updated reports refer to:
https://healthytrees.co.nz/publications-and-resources/

 

Trees and disease protection 

Objectives
Developing techniques to visualize early infection of kauri by PA in deliberately inoculated seedlings.

Outcomes
Fluorescent in situ hybridisation assay for PA; tolerance screening assays for kauri seedlings.

Research Provider
Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research 

Research Status
Completed

Link to report
Link to report 2

Kauri Mapping Project

Objectives
The development of a geodatabase that will include information showing where kauri are located, level of abundance and maturity, and the type of ecosystem kauri resides in. In addition, information that informs the type of human vectoring that may have occurred in the past (e.g. kauri logging, kauri plantations, kauri nurseries).

Outcomes
Pending.

Research Provider
Wildlands

Contract Number
17720

Research Status
Current
Completion Date: 2018/2019

 

Iconic Tree Project (Desktop) - Stage 1.

Objectives
One of the programme strategic outcomes is to protect iconic trees and stands from kauri dieback. What defines an ‘iconic’ tree or stand is an important first step.  A desktop review was carried out to identify publically known trees as a pre-cursor to defining what an ‘iconic tree’ is. The provision of baseline information that captures each tree’s characteristics and the trees risk of infection to Kauri Dieback was also listed. 

Outcomes
A list of trees was provided based on public perception/awareness. Further work is required to refine the process under Stage 2. 

Research Provider
Biospatial Ltd.

Contract Number
17826

Research Status
Completed

 

Independent knowledge review of the state of kauri dieback.

Objectives
To assess the knowledge of kauri dieback research, including sharing and aligning matauranga Maori, understanding of disease distribution, tools for managing the disease, use of regulatory tools and understanding the effectiveness of interventions. 

Outcomes
Key knowledge gaps identified and well resolved areas and recommendations on future research directions outlined. Shift focus from a single pathogen approach to looking at multiple drivers. A number of recommendations were made in regards to increasing research in certain areas (e.g. role of other drivers; alternative hosts; long term demographic modelling; broader forest ecology & demography; diversify investment to seek better diagnostic tools; matauranga Maori; economic & social implications) while other research areas are deemed to be of lower priority (e.g. management/control tools; host resistance and susceptibility; vector research).  

Research Provider
Lincoln University

Contract Number
17762

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Prioritisation & Optimisation Intervention Framework

Objectives
Decision Support Tool to aid in decision making around what factors you need to consider to prioritise and selecting the most appropriate mitigation measure.

Outcomes
Decision Framework utilising a series of excel spreadsheets and guidance documents to determine prioritisation of an area.

Research Provider
O'Connor Sinclair

Contract Number
17679

Research Status
Completed

 Link to report

Behavioural Change - Stage 1: Workshops

Objectives
Previous surveys have found a high non-compliance rate of forest visitors incorrectly or not using our cleaning stations prior to entering or exiting a kauri forest. Workshop was held involving social scientists to develop behavioural change initiatives around how we can better communicate the key messaging around appropriate use of cleaning stations to reduce non-compliance. These initiatives were outlined in a second workshop to gather KDP Partner Agencies feedback. 

Outcomes
Panel has identified a number of behavioural change initiatives to be tested. Next step is to field test these initiatives.

Research Provider
Department of Conservation

Research Status
Completed

 

Mark II Prototype Cleaning Station - Compliance Research Report

Objectives
Track users entering and exiting the cleaning station were observed, to determine what cleaning equipment they were using. This was to research the level of track user compliance at the new prototype cleaning station.

Outcomes
90% or more of track users did ‘something’ to clean their shoes. Due to the variety of equipment available, and the new method of disinfecting shoes using a ‘treadle’, a large variety of behaviours were observed resulting in a difference between correct and partial compliance. The focus is now to shape track users behaviour to undertake the correct behaviours to achieve correct compliance.

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Kauri Dieback Signage Icons: Public Testing

Objectives
Icons designed by both MPI and DOC, which are being used to communicate instructions regarding kauri track usage, were tested to determine the publics understanding of these icons.

Outcomes
Icons communicating the messages to brush shoes and disinfect shoes were well understood. One ‘stay on track’ icon was far more effective than another, with the recommendation that signage be changed to the more effective icon over time.

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

Risk posed by different vector types for the spread of kauri dieback

Objectives
Through a series of surveys involving a number of questions posed to user groups, a list of high risk human activities was compiled based on user groups level of understanding of kauri dieback. 

Outcomes
There was an inconsistency of peoples understanding of kauri dieback. All user groups could benefit from type specific information and education. Recreational users are mostly unaware of kauri dieback followed by tourism. Training, certification and best practice were all suggestions made by user groups to improve awareness. 

Research Provider
MPI

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Factors influencing public responses to kauri dieback control measures

Objectives
Identifying factors that influence peoples responses, perceptions and attitudes towards kauri dieback controls.

Outcomes
Overall high level of awareness (75.7%) and past compliance with stations (88.9%) and track usage (78.2%). Lower compliance amongst younger visitors, the less educated, visitors outside AKL and those of Asian, Maori or Pacific ethnicities. Lower rates of awareness did not necessary translate to lower compliance. A focus on positive messaging and publicize compliance rates to reduce scepticism and demonstrate positive social norm. Education is clear and minimise the perceived threat to activities.

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Kauri dieback survey report

Objectives
Comparing awareness and compliance behaviours from 2011 to 2016.

Outcomes
Overall awareness of kauri dieback has increased significantly from 31% in 2011 to 67% in 2016. However, there was no significant increase (p>.05) in six compliance behaviours between 2011 and 2016. Note, there was a significant increase in self-reported use of disinfectant from 28% to 40%. Most users want to know more about the disease and would support wider communications.  Dog owners report significantly lower knowledge about the disease. People are supportive of actions but there's a feeling among some that their personal actions can't make a difference, however vast majority who has taken some action think its important to do so. Main barrier to action is a lack of awareness of when kauri are near and lack of awareness of the disease in general. There is a view that kauri are just one of many threatened species in NZ. Four in ten people who used disinfectant, used it incorrectly. A large number of forest visitors look for information before spending time in the forest. 

Research Status
Completed

Link to report
Link to Report 2

 

Kauri dieback formative research report

Objectives
To better understand public values, attitudes and likely responses to required behaviours and messages; To benchmark current awareness, understanding and importance. 

Outcomes
21% are aware of kauri dieback, highest awareness in Auckland. Kauri is valued because of its size but its age and cultural significance are most important. Pests and pollution are more familiar issues in relation to forest health. The disease is not well understood. There is doubt about the role humans play. Cleaning is not always easy and sticking to tracks most forest users would adhere to, with the exception of hunters. Positive messaging is important instead of negative. More info is needed and stakeholders are open to receiving more information and act as advocates. 

Research Status
Completed

Link to report

 

Evaluation of Kauri Dieback Signage

Objectives
A review of kauri dieback signage noting strengths and weaknesses. Basing evaluation on scientific literature and best practice.

Outcomes
Implementing changes based on hazard communications theory could increase the effectiveness of signage. Some current elements are good practice. Some improvements recommended (e.g. use of a signal word; cause and effect messaging). International research suggests that normative messaging is effective. Awareness is not the issue but more about understanding the beliefs and the psychology of compliance. 

Research Status
Completed

Link to report