Biosecurity New Zealand is asking Aucklanders on the North Shore to stay alert for yellow-legged hornets, a first-time find in New Zealand that matters because these predators threaten honeybee and wild bee populations.

“We’ve had a fantastic response so far from the public to our request for help with surveillance. To date, we’ve received more than 1,000 notifications via email and phone with no new confirmed finds since the weekend,” says Mike Inglis, North commissioner, Biosecurity New Zealand.

Since Friday, October 17, four queen hornets have been confirmed and their nests safely removed.

Three were detected in Glenfield and one in Birkdale, about 1.3 km from the initial detection in Glenfield.

To support surveillance, 120 traps are being laid in targeted areas where females have been found.

“This is the first time we’ve found yellow-legged hornets in New Zealand. We responded quickly to this threat, but we continue to need the public’s help to eliminate any further risk,” Mr Inglis says.

He noted other countries manage the pest, but New Zealand aims to keep it out.

Members of the public are asked to report suspected hornets or nests only if they have a specimen, a clear photo, or a possible nest location.

Reports can be made at report.mpi.govt.nz or by calling 0800 809 966. Learn more here.

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