As the September school holidays approach, Coasties can expect busy skies and a stronger biosecurity presence at Auckland Airport.

With international arrivals projected to rise by 2% compared to last year’s 217,195 passengers, Biosecurity New Zealand is stepping up efforts to protect the country’s borders from potential threats.

Mike Inglis, Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner, highlighted the preparations underway.

“We’re continuing to recruit more frontline border officers, and so far, 70 new trainees have joined, with 51 stationed in Auckland.”

Inglis emphasised the need for a solid biosecurity force to handle the increased traveler numbers, which have grown steadily since COVID-19 restrictions eased.

In August, biosecurity officers nationwide screened over 474,000 passengers, an increase from the same month last year.

The team also seized 7,536 risk items, including common threats like fresh produce, meat products, and used equipment.

Among the more unusual finds were dried cow dung patties and a haul of giant clams.

"These risk items could introduce dangerous pests, such as the exotic fruit fly or brown marmorated stink bug, which could devastate New Zealand's $54 billion primary sector," Inglis said.

To streamline the process, Biosecurity New Zealand rolled out a new risk assessment system at Auckland Airport last year.

Passengers with nothing to declare are assessed before collecting their baggage, allowing for faster exits.

"This initiative has cut average screening times down to 5 minutes, compared to a peak of over 13 minutes earlier last year," Inglis noted.

As more international passengers are expected during the holidays, Biosecurity New Zealand plans to trial similar systems at airports across the country to improve efficiency while maintaining strict biosecurity standards.

The upcoming holiday season will test these preparations, but the team remains focused on safeguarding New Zealand from biosecurity risks, ensuring a smooth and safe entry for all passengers.