Authorities working to eradicate Mycoplasma bovis are hoping momentum will continue after a positive end to 2018.
The campaign to get rid of the cattle disease ended on a high note last year, with the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) saying evidence suggested things were looking positive for eradication.
New MPI boss to focus on communication in M bovis fight
If successful, New Zealand would be the first country in the world to do so.
The figures show little change in the number of infected properties with 36 active infected properties and 51 cleared of the disease.
MPI's Director of Mycoplasma bovis Geoff Gwyn said last year was a big year for everyone affected by the outbreak and he expects momentum to continue throughout 2019.
"Since the decision was announced to try for phased eradication, we have been working with a number of properties who are potentially at risk of being infected with M. bovis, the vast majority of which are tested and found to not have the disease," he said.
"For those that do have the disease on their property, you are taking a big hit for the industry and I assure you, it does not go unnoticed or unappreciated," said Mr Gwyn.
He said while the latest evidence shows things are looking positive for eradication, many farmers are still struggling.
"I know that a number of people are still doing the hard yards and this news may be of little consolation to them."
"We remain committed to ensuring our farmers and their families are at the centre of all our efforts as we continue to work towards eradication of M. bovis."
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