The surveillance zone for yellow-legged hornets on Auckland’s North Shore has been extended, following advice from independent technical experts.

The zone now covers an 11km radius from detection sites, providing greater confidence that the hornet incursion is limited to a single population within the local area and ensures a rapid response if any spread is detected.

As summer continues, increased foraging activity by worker hornets is expected. Response teams are collaborating closely with beekeepers, including over 575 apiaries within the 11km zone. Traps will be placed near hives, and beekeepers will receive more guidance on monitoring and identifying hornet activity.

Biosecurity New Zealand is partnering in the response with horticulture, wine, and arable sectors, including KVH, under the Government Industry Agreement for Biosecurity Readiness and Response (GIA); alongside the bee industry, regional councils, and the Department of Conservation on response efforts.

The response’s technical advisory group has commended the strong response to date, noting significant progress in locating and destroying hornets and nests. This endorsement reinforces confidence that efforts are on the right track and that we’re doing everything possible to contain and eradicate this pest.

To date, 37 queen hornets and 24 nests have been successfully destroyed.

All growers - especially those in Auckland - are urged to be on the lookout for yellow-legged hornets or nests, especially near any hives they may have on their property. Report sightings immediately to Biosecurity New Zealand on 0800 80 99 66 or make an online report here.

There are various resources, including a video about where to look for nests on your property, available on our dedicated response page here.