Labour MP Trevor Mallard says he is appalled that TB-infected possums were deliberately released into the Rimutaka Forest Park by a government agency.
Trevor Mallard with a picture of an infected possum Photo: RNZ / Chris Bramwell
Landcare Research says as part of a project, 12 possums were infected and released in the study area.
It said after six months, they were caught and euthanized.
But Trevor Mallard, the Hutt South MP, said every possum in the area should be destroyed as soon as possible.
"But I also want an assurance that this sort of experiment will not be funded by government - this was funded by the taxpayer - and just won't happen again. It's just irresponsible."
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy said Mr Mallard was being mischievous, as the area has had TB- infected possums since the 1980s.
