Yellow-legged hornets (Vespa velutina) - a non-native pest - have been detected in Auckland.

Ten queens have been found so far, some of which were building nests and had already developed workers. Biosecurity NZ has initiated a rapid response - delimiting the area, setting traps, and undertaking heightened surveillance. 

Follow the latest updates as the situation develops here

Please report any suspected sightings to MPI on 0800 809 966 or online at report.mpi.govt.nz 

One hornet and 3 different wasp species side by side, numbered from 1 to 4.

From left to right, biggest to smallest: 1 Yellow-legged hornet, 2 German wasp, 3 Asian paper wasp, 4 Australian paper wasp.

[Source: MPI]