Yellow-legged Hornet Queen Discovered in Auckland, Prompting Biosecurity Alert

Invasive Hornet Queen Found in Auckland

A queen yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina), also known as the Asian hornet, was recently discovered constructing a nest in Glenfield, a suburb on Auckland's North Shore. This marks the first time a queen of this invasive species has been found in New Zealand, triggering a significant biosecurity alert across the country. Biosecurity New Zealand officers promptly removed the nest on October 17, 2025, addressing the immediate threat of a colony establishing.

Threat to Honeybees and Ecosystem

The yellow-legged hornet poses a severe threat to New Zealand's native ecosystems and vital agricultural sectors, particularly honeybee populations. According to Mike Inglis, North Commissioner for Biosecurity New Zealand, 'This is the first time we've found a queen yellow-legged hornet in New Zealand.' The species is a highly adaptable predator with a broad diet, primarily consuming bees, wasps, and flies, but also ripe fruit and flower nectar. Experts, such as Victoria University professor of ecology and entomology Phil Lester, warn that the hornet preys on honeybees by hovering outside hives and attacking returning workers. This predatory behaviour can lead to significant colony losses, with reports from Europe indicating up to 30% colony destruction in invaded areas like France and Spain. Beyond honeybees, the hornet may compete with native insects and birds for food, and its painful sting also presents a risk to humans.

Previous Sightings and Public Appeal

The discovery of the queen follows earlier sightings of two male yellow-legged hornets in Auckland's Grafton and Albany suburbs earlier in 2025. While those were isolated incidents, the presence of a queen building a nest indicates a more serious potential for establishment. Biosecurity New Zealand is urging Aucklanders and the wider public to be vigilant, especially as summer approaches, which could facilitate the growth of undetected nests. Members of the public are asked to report any suspected sightings of hornets or their nests immediately.

Biosecurity Response and Public Guidance

Biosecurity New Zealand has emphasized the importance of public cooperation in preventing the spread of this pest. Mike Inglis stated, 'We responded quickly to this threat, but we need the public's help to eliminate any further risk.' The public is advised to:

• Report any sightings of suspected yellow-legged hornets or nests online at report.mpi.govt.nz.
• Call Biosecurity New Zealand's exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 809 966.
• Do not disturb a nest if one is found; instead, photograph it and contact Biosecurity New Zealand.

Councillor Richard Hills of the North Shore underscored the gravity of the situation, noting that 'Any new species that can impact on our native biodiversity and our export industry should be treated with caution.' The yellow-legged hornet, identifiable by its large size (2-3 cm), black head, yellow face, black thorax, and distinctive yellow legs, builds round, beige or brown nests up to 90 cm high.