In the news

Move over birds – it’s time for bug of the year: A public campaign is under way to find New Zealand’s most-loved bug. Aotearoa is home to more than 20,000 species of insects and spiders and it’s hoped the contest will spark conversation and a new appreciation for bugs that many Kiwis take for granted.

Let’s keep stink bugs out of New Zealand: As we head into summer, we’re asking everyone to stay on the lookout for Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB). The national public awareness campaign for the pest starts Monday and includes this video promoted across social media channels, particularly targeted at online shoppers and those who have recently returned from overseas travel.