Source - Gemini AI 

An update on the yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) situation in Auckland, based on recent reports:

 Biosecurity New Zealand is continuing its enhanced response to the yellow-legged hornet detections in the Glenfield and Birkdale areas of Auckland's North Shore.

 Key Developments

• Expanded Surveillance Zone: The surveillance zone around the detection sites has been extended from 5km to 11km based on advice from an independent technical advisory group. This expansion aims to provide greater assurance that the incursion is a single, contained population. The extended zone now covers significant parts of Auckland, including the CBD.

    

• Destruction of Queens and Nests: As of the latest updates (around December 11, 2025), a total of 34 queen hornets and 22 nests have been successfully located and destroyed.

   

• Intensified Search and Trapping:

  • Nearly 650 traps have been deployed within a 5km radius of the detection sites.

     

  • Over 3,500 properties have been searched within 200 metres of confirmed finds.

     

• Engagement with Beekeepers: The extended 11km zone involves working closely with over 575 registered apiaries, with traps being placed near hives and information provided on monitoring.

   

• New Technology: Electronic tracking gear is being purchased, and UK experts are guiding the process of attaching transmitters to foraging worker hornets to trace them back to their nests.

   

• Public Reports: Public support remains strong, with over 5,610 public notifications received so far, which Biosecurity New Zealand stresses is their best surveillance tool.

   

What Biosecurity New Zealand is Saying

Biosecurity New Zealand expects to find more hornets over the summer due to the increased surveillance efforts and urges the public and beekeepers to remain vigilant, particularly ahead of an expected lift in foraging by worker hornets.

⚠️ How to Report a Suspected Sighting

If you see a suspected yellow-legged hornet or nest, do not attempt to remove or control it yourself. Take a clear photo if possible and report it immediately:

• Online: report.mpi.govt.nz 

• Hotline: 0800 809 966 (Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline) 

Check out his video on hornets and making a trap . https://youtu.be/_I5UOyBF9v0

New Zealands most comprehensive alert service - Lert.Info