Business leaders from across New Zealand are being invited to Queenstown this month for a unique event exploring how organisations can help protect the natural and economic assets that underpin the country's prosperity.
The Biosecurity Business Pledge, Queenstown Airport and New Zealand Winegrowers are co-hosting a Biosecurity Leadership Event on 28 August, offering business leaders, biosecurity experts and regional stakeholders a behind-the-scenes look at New Zealand's biosecurity system and the important role businesses can play in strengthening it.
The event will begin with an exclusive tour of the airport's biosecurity areas, offering participants a rare opportunity to see the frontline systems and partnerships that help protect New Zealand from unwanted pests, diseases, and other biosecurity threats.
Attendees will then board a bus to learn more about local efforts to manage wilding pines and protect biodiversity, before gathering at Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen for lunch and a leadership discussion featuring Queenstown Airport Chief of Aviation & Customer Todd Grace, Director-General of Biosecurity New Zealand Stuart Anderson, and NZ Winegrowers’ Biosecurity Adviser Tim Towers.
The event will also see the launch of procurement guidance designed to help organisations strengthen biosecurity resilience through procurement and supply chain decisions.
Mr Grace said: “As an international gateway welcoming visitors and goods from around the world, Queenstown Airport understands the importance of strong biosecurity systems.
“We're pleased to host this event and help lead conversations about how businesses can better understand biosecurity risks and protect the natural environment and industries that make New Zealand unique.
“Biosecurity isn't just an issue for border agencies. It has implications for tourism, trade, the environment and the economy. It's something all businesses should be thinking about.”
Biosecurity Business Pledge Executive Director Debbie Teale said: “Strong biosecurity depends on everyone working together. No single organisation can protect New Zealand alone.
“Many people don't realise how their everyday business decisions, including procurement and supply chain choices, can affect biosecurity outcomes. This event is about making those connections and sharing practical ideas organisations can apply in their own organisations.
“It's also an opportunity to learn from experts, connect with other business leaders and gain a deeper understanding of why biosecurity matters to New Zealand's future.”
The Queenstown Biosecurity Leadership Event is free, but spaces are limited and registration is required. Book your place at: https://events.humanitix.com/the-biosecurity-business-pledge-queenstown-biosecurity-forum
Note for editors: The Biosecurity Business Pledge is a network of businesses working collaboratively to strengthen biosecurity awareness and capability across the private sector. Queenstown Airport and New Zealand Winegrowers have been members since 2023.
More information about the Biosecurity Business Pledge is available here: https://bbpledge.nz/
Image: Chard Farm Winery. Credit: QueenstownNZ.co.nz