A faster response to dealing with future invasive marine pests in the top of the South Island is expected after the launch of a new biosecurity initiative on Wednesday.
It aims to deal more quickly with pests in Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough - the biggest marine farming area in New Zealand.
Three local councils, eight iwi and scientists will work to identify biosecurity threats and minimise their impacts.
Industry group Marine Farmers says imported pests such as undaria weed and didendum (sea squirt) are costing the industry millions of dollars in lost production and mitigation.
Top of the South iwi spokesperson Fred Te Miha says a rapid and co-ordinated response is vital to keep out or minimise future marine pests.
The councils and MAF Biosecurity New Zealand have contributed $120,000 to start the process.
