Waikato Regional Council Enforcement Policy – Biosecurity

Waikato Regional Council have a number of obligations relating to implementation of the Biosecurity Act 1993 (the Act). The purpose of the Pest Management section of the Act (Part 5) is to provide for the eradication or effective management of pest and unwanted organisms.

The Act provides a legal framework for the exclusion, eradication and effective management of pests and unwanted organisms and statutory obligations relating to compliance and enforcement. The Integrated Catchment Management Directorate (ICM) oversees the biosecurity functions of the Council.

Waikato Regional Council needs to meet their obligations to the Act and community while working within our values, and towards our vision, purpose and key strategic priorities.

Much of the biosecurity ‘business’ involves the notification and ongoing development of regional pest management plans and regional pathway management plans; promoting public support for pest management; facilitation communication and co-operation among organisations with biosecurity responsibilities (to enhance effectiveness, efficiency and equity); promoting coordination of pest management between regions and complaints from members of the public.

The Waikato Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) sets out objectives, methods, and rules that are specific to each of the plant and animal species declared to be ‘pests’. The Council has a risk-based compliance and enforcement strategy to encourage positive behaviour change and ensure others achieve the highest levels of compliance possible.

On occasion when a breach has been confirmed there is a requirement to take enforcement action against liable parties using tools available under the Act. This role can be contentious and the subject of public and judicial scrutiny.

The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidance  Integrated Catchment Management staff, the wider council and the public with high level guidance on how to achieve our compliance and enforcement biosecurity obligations.