Quentin Paynter is an entomologist with over 20-years of experience in weed biocontrol. Originally from the in the UK, Quentin has worked on biocontrol projects in France, Australia, and New Zealand, where he has worked for Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research since 2003. Quentin divides his time between scientific studies designed to improve the success rate and ensure the environmental safety of weed biocontrol and hands on weed biocontrol work, developing biocontrol agents for key invasive weed species in New Zealand and Pacific Island countries, such as the Cook Islands and Vanuatu.
Biological control is often the most cost-effective management tool for invasive weeds. This presentation will cover the history of weed biocontrol in New Zealand and ongoing work undertaken by Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research to ensure that biocontrol agents are and effective. The talk will also reveal what biocontrol agents are in the pipeline for release in the Auckland region over the next few years.