DOC staff members are testing for a new strain of canine distemper virus. Photo / DOC
DOC staff members are testing for a new strain of canine distemper virus. Photo / DOC
A new strain of canine distemper virus has been found in New Zealand fur seals (kekeno), and researchers from the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Massey University are working to understand its potential impact on these charismatic marine mammals. The virus, a divergent strain of canine distemper virus (CDV), hasbeen linked to disease and mortality in kekeno. Current evidence suggests this virus is not likely to represent a new introduction to New Zealand, but rather a previously undetected strain. There is no known human health risk.
Big festival
The Bay of Islands Big Weekend Festival promises a Labour Weekend packed with live music, family fun, local flavours, and plenty of atmosphere. Set under a spacious marquee in Paihia, the four-session festival on October 25 and 26 has something for everyone, including families looking for long-weekend fun, mates chasing a night out, or foodies keen to sample the best of Northland. The programme includes kids’ entertainment, Kiwi entertainers Anika Moa, Jeremy Redmore, Chris Sanders, Sonar Flare and Hello Sailor, along with loads of food and tasting stations. Tickets and more information at Eventfinda.co.nz
Asthma gas link
The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ is concerned by new research showing that household gas stoves may be contributing to thousands of childhood asthma cases every year. A new report, commissioned by Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), reveals that more than 3200 new childhood asthma cases each year in New Zealand – and hundreds of respiratory hospitalisations – could be linked to exposure to indoor air pollutants.
October bursts with creativity this year as Art in the Bar opens its serene and luminous Perfect Days exhibition at the Turner Centre Theatre Bar on Thursday, October 2, from 5-7pm.
WasteMINZ is encouraging households to count their batteries for the Great Battery Hunt, a nationwide household survey to uncover how many small batteries are tucked away in corners of our homes – in remotes, toys, toothbrushes, clocks and home gadgets – and to transform that awareness into safer disposal practices and better systems across Aotearoa New Zealand. The Great Battery Hunt results will feed into the Small Battery Environmental Scan project being carried out by WasteMINZ. After counting their batteries, WasteMINZ urges members of the public to drop off used and unwanted batteries at safe collection points. Information about where to safely dispose of batteries is available on the WasteMINZ website.
