Four new research projects have been commissioned to support New Zealand’s ongoing campaign to eradicate the invasive yellow-legged hornet, as authorities continue surveillance efforts across Auckland.
The projects will be led by scientists from the Bioeconomy Science Institute and are designed to strengthen the response coordinated by Biosecurity New Zealand.
One project will use modelling to identify Auckland areas at greatest risk of harbouring remaining hornet populations, helping guide search and surveillance operations. The work will draw on thousands of public reports received since the pest was first detected on Auckland’s North Shore in 2025.
According to Biosecurity New Zealand, 77 queen hornets and 132 nests have been located and destroyed since the response began. No further sightings have been recorded since early April, although officials say continued monitoring remains essential.
Authorities caution that surviving queens could still establish new colonies, meaning surveillance will continue through spring before eradication can be confirmed.
Additional research will examine the potential impact of yellow-legged hornets in rural parts of New Zealand, develop targeted awareness programmes for Māori communities, and create a preparedness guide for the honey and pollination industries should long-term management become necessary.
The readiness package will draw on overseas experience in countries where the species has become established, alongside lessons learned from New Zealand’s eradication campaign.
The projects are being funded through the Strategic Science Investment Fund administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Auckland’s North Shore has a lot to answer for.
They should lose their bridge over this at a minimum.