What’s That Bug? Citizen Science For Biosecurity In Mount Maunganui, New Zealand

Abstract Measuring biosecurity perceptions, awareness and behaviour: A New Zealand case studyTauranga Moana has been named the ‘biosecurity capital’ of New Zealand, as part of the government’s ‘Biosecurity 2025’ Initiative to enlist all New Zealanders as biosecurity risk managers. This will involve large-scale citizen science, for reporting, eradication and management of pest and disease threats. We measure baseline awareness, perceptions and behaviour about biosecurity among two key citizen science groups, the local community at Mount Maunganui (surrounding Tauranga’s port) and school children. An online survey was completed by 324 members of the local community, while 120 school children completed a survey about their biosecurity knowledge and behaviours after using a biosecurity education kit. Results indicate that while both groups report a relatively high level of understanding about the concept of biosecurity, and acknowledge it as extremely important, knowledge of current pest threats and correct biosecurity behaviours could be improved. Mount Maunganui community members rate their understanding of biosecurity as better than the average New Zealander, but are less likely to have taken regular biosecurity action in the past year. For school children, improved biosecurity efforts could be evidenced by more active pest monitoring, and greater discussion about biosecurity outside of school (e.g. with their family at home). Key enablers for achieving more impactful citizen science for biosecurity among these groups are targeted education, and practical advice about what they can do to help.