Boston's nose for biosecurity

A different kind of detector dog is set to be introduced near airports soon - not to sniff out illegal substances or drugs, but to hunt out snakes, birds and other reptiles that may find their way into the country.

The Ministry for Primary Industries has acquired a new dog to help with biosecurity responses.

The springer spaniel, called Boston, has been trained to search for pests such as ants and termites; as well as birds, snakes and other reptiles.

In the past several major biosecurity hazards have breached our borders including venomous snakes, scorpions and lizards.

In 2012, a Queensland fruit fly was found in Avondale, West Auckland. About $1.5 million of taxpayer money was needed for the major biosecurity operation that followed the discovery.

In January this year another fruit fly was discovered in Whangarei.

That led to a surveillance programme and restrictions on the movement of vegetables and fruit, which again hit taxpayers, this time with a $1.6 million bill.

At the Auckland Biosecurity Centre - near the Auckland International Airport - Boston the detector dog was happy to show off his skills.

The Ministry for Primary Industries plans to get at least two other dogs trained to help with biosecurity.