WEBINAR: NRT research into myrtle rust

Ngā Rākau Taketake research into myrtle rust

April 2024

Ganley B. 2024. Ngā Rākau Taketake research into myrtle rust. Beyond Myrtle Rust Webinar Series.

Abstract

In 2018 and 2019, the New Zealand government announced extra funding for research into kauri dieback and myrtle rust. They chose the BioHeritage National Science Challenge to administer this extra support, and the programme Ngā Rākau Taketake began. The research was structured into seven themes: Oranga – Wellbeing; Mobilising for Action; Risk Assessment & Ecosystem Impacts; Integrated Surveillance; Control, Protect, Cure; Host, Pathogen & Environment; and Conservation & Restoration. All these themes have worked towards the ‘guiding star’ of: The mauri (life force) of the kauri and of our native myrtle species are safeguarded, sustained and enhanced for our tamariki and mokopuna (children and grandchildren).

At the end of this month, Ngā Rākau Taketake will draw to a close. Watch to hear Dr Beccy Ganley, co-lead for Ngā Rākau Taketake, celebrate the progress made by this programme in spite of what she has described as “the most tumultuous science years I have ever experienced”. In the face of disruptions caused by COVID and by extreme weather events in New Zealand, researchers were able to build a valuable knowledge base and develop several useful tools that will be critical for continued efforts to protect our Myrtaceae.