Bay of Plenty kiwifruit growers were updated today with the latest information on the fight against PSA.

In their first publicly run meetings, representatives from newly formed company Kiwifruit Vine Health Inc. (KVH) met with growers in Te Puke and Tauranga this afternoon.

During the two meetings, nearly 300 growers heard from KVH Chairman John Burke about progress in treating and monitoring the bacterial disease.

“There was a good exchange of information, and I think growers feel comfortable about where things sit at the moment," Mr Burke said.

“Obviously there’s still a lot of nervousness about PSA."

“We certainly stressed to everyone the message of vigilance, constantly monitoring orchards for sign of spread or progression, so we don’t drop our guard over he next couple of weeks over the holidays.”

John Burke said the top priority for KVH is ensuring the spread is halted, along with distributing funds to those affected by PSA.

“This incursion affects every grower in New Zealand."

“That’s the main thing we’re trying to stress – whether you’ve got it or not, it does affect you, and we’ve got to work as a team to address this threat.”

Anyone worried about PSA on their orchard should call Zespri’s helpline on 0800 155 355.