Minister visits Psa-hit orchards

Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy with Te Puke Kiwifuit grower Jeff Roderick. Photo/ Joel Ford

Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy paid his first visit to Psa affected orchards in Te Puke today.

Mr Guy was joined by Bay of Plenty MP Tony Ryall in the "fact finding" visit, where the minister spoke with local growers, kiwifruit authorities and researchers working on ways to tackle the devastating vine disease.

Mr Guy said he was optimistic the industry would survive Psa. He was encouraged by the success of Te Puke grower Jeff Roderick's organic orchard which appeared to have overcome the worst of Psa, he said.

Mr Roderick said it was pleasing to have the minister make the effort to visit affected orchards, to help him better address the issue of Psa.