Biosecurity New Zealand is urging Aucklanders, including those on the Hibiscus Coast, to keep an eye out for yellow-legged hornets after a queen was found building a nest in Glenfield.

The nest was removed on 17 October before a colony could establish, says Mike Inglis, North Commissioner for Biosecurity New Zealand.

“This is the first time we’ve found a queen yellow-legged hornet in New Zealand,” Mr Inglis says.

“We responded quickly to this threat, but we need the public’s help to eliminate any further risk.”

Two male hornets were spotted earlier this year in Grafton and Albany, so officers are keen to confirm there are no others around.

The species is a serious biosecurity concern because it preys on bees, wasps, and flies, threatening local ecosystems and horticulture.

“It’s a highly adaptable predator,” Mr Inglis says.

“It also feeds on ripe fruit and flower nectar, posing a risk to growers and competing with native insects and birds.”

The yellow-legged hornet is not established in New Zealand, and officials want to keep it that way.

Coast residents who think they’ve seen one are urged to photograph it and report sightings at report.mpi.govt.nz or by calling the Biosecurity New Zealand exotic pest hotline on 0800 80 99 66.

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