Source: Radio New Zealand
More than 30 queen hornets and 22 nests have been located and destroyed so far in Auckland. Biosecurity NZ
The government has announced additional funding will be allocated to help eradicate yellow-legged hornets in Auckland.
More than 30 queen hornets and 22 nests have been located and destroyed so far in the region, with trapping and ground searches expanded significantly across the city’s North Shore recently.
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard said the government has committed $12 million to cover the cost of the response to 30 June 2026.
“This funding gives us the best possible chance to eradicate yellow-legged hornet,” he said.
“The hornet is a predator that poses a serious threat to honeybees and, by extension, to New Zealand’s agricultural sector and overall economy. It’s crucial we prevent it from establishing here to protect what matters most to New Zealand-our environment, our primary industries, and the livelihoods that depend on them.”
Biosecurity New Zealand will contribute $2m from its baseline funding, while the remaining $10m would come from reprioritised funds.
Hoggard said the government would consider further funding if costs were to rise.
He said Biosecurity New Zealand was working with industry partners as part of the agreement, as well as with beekeepers and their groups.
“I’m confident that strong and swift measures are in place to deal with the hornet, and we will continue to draw on the knowledge of our local and international experts who are guiding our work,” Hoggard said.
He urged the public to be vigilant, and to report any sightings of the yellow-legged hornet to Biosecurity New Zealand.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
