Hornets in NZ

New Zealand’s beekeeping industry is facing a very real biosecurity threat: the yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina). If this hornet becomes established here, the impact on bees, beekeepers, and pollination would be severe. The good news is that early detection gives us the best chance of stopping it — and that’s where everyday beekeepers and landowners can make a huge difference.

What’s happening right now

We’re seeing ongoing response activity in Auckland, with secondary nests being found in the Glenfield area. These nests are often very high in large trees, which makes them difficult to detect from the ground.

To give you an idea of how fast this can escalate, a photo recently taken by Russell Smith at the NAHB Expo in Kentucky shows a secondary nest just four months old, measuring approximately 670mm wide × 500mm high — already substantial in size.

Why timing matters

There’s a narrow window where finding nests is especially critical. By April–May, queen hornets begin leaving established nests to hibernate over winter, before starting new nests next spring. Finding and destroying nests before this happens is absolutely key.

There’s also an uncomfortable risk we have to take seriously: what if hibernating queens were unknowingly transported to other parts of New Zealand last winter? That’s why monitoring can’t be limited to one area alone.

Why trapping matters right now

Monitoring traps should be deployed across all regions of New Zealand this month — even well outside the known response area. Early detection is the difference between:

  • eradication, or
  • a permanent, nationwide problem for beekeepers.

Our recommendation: a selective hornet trap (designed to reduce by-catch)

If you’re going to trap for monitoring, it’s important to be mindful of non-target insects. The Good4Bees hornet trap (designed in Switzerland) is recognised internationally as one of the most effective selective traps available — targeting hornets while allowing beneficial insects a better chance to escape.

What makes it different to basic traps?

  • Strong, durable construction designed for repeated outdoor use
  • Very high efficacy at luring hornets when used side-by-side with other trap types
  • Clever wicking system that steadily disperses attractant scent
  • Well-engineered entry points that guide hornets in while limiting escape
  • High capture effectiveness once hornets enter the trap
  • Smart by-catch release holes to help bees and other insects escape

Buy the Beequip Selective Hornet Trap

How you can help (simple steps)

1) Deploy a monitoring trap

  • Put a trap in a sheltered outdoor spot where you can check it easily.
  • If you manage multiple sites (home + yard + apiary), run one trap at each location.
  • Check traps regularly and refresh bait as needed.

2) Stay alert for signs of hornet activity

  • Nests may be high in trees and difficult to spot.
  • If you see unusual hornet activity, treat it seriously — even if you’re outside the known response area.

3) If you see a nest or catch something suspicious

  • Do not disturb nests (do not spray, cut, knock down, or approach closely).
  • If safe, take a clear photo from a distance.
  • If a suspected hornet is caught, keep it contained for identification and report it immediately.

Every verified report helps narrow the search and increases the odds of eradication. Thanks for doing your part — this is one of those moments where fast, practical action really matters.

Official MPI information and reporting guidance: mpi.govt.nz – Yellow-legged hornets in Auckland

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