Positive changes to West Coast TB controls as region marks major progress
Farmers across the West Coast will soon see significant changes to TB testing requirements, marking a milestone in the region’s long-running effort to eliminate the disease.
For decades, much of the West Coast has operated under Movement Control Area (MCA) rules due to the historic spread of TB from wildlife - especially possums - to cattle and deer. These restrictions required frequent on‑farm testing and pre‑movement tests.
From 1 March 2026, most of the Coast will transition to annual on‑farm testing only, with no pre‑movement testing required. This shift is possible thanks to sustained possum control, strong farmer participation, and a steady decline in TB risk across the region.
These changes will result in:
- 7,100 fewer pre‑movement tests required on the West Coast
- 130 herds no longer requiring pre‑movement tests as of 1 March 2026
- Saving people’s time on-farm
Only the Hari Hari area will remain under Movement Control while work continues to eliminate TB from local wildlife.
OSPRI Farmer Committee Chair Katrina Simpson says the change reflects the collective effort of farmers, communities, and disease-management teams:
“Reducing MCAs on the West Coast is a sign of the progress we’ve all worked hard to achieve… This change reflects confidence in our disease management and moves us closer to a TB-free future.”
Want more details?
A full fact sheet with maps, timelines, and testing requirements is available and provides a clear breakdown of what these changes mean.