German wasp
There are several kinds of native wasps in New Zealand which have evolved here and have never become a nuisance. In contrast there are now four social species which have been accidentally introduced in recent years and which are classed as pests.
Learn the difference between native wasp populations in NZ and pest wasps that have accidentally been introduced here in recent years.
Without natural predators, introduced wasp populations in NZ have soared. They threaten forest ecosystems, particularly beech forests, and impact our forestry and tourism industries.
Find out about DOC's work to control introduced wasp populations in NZ.
Learn how you can help get rid of introduced wasp pests.
The Landcare Research website has useful information on wasps and how to control them.
View the Bandits of the Beech Forest documentary on NZ on Screen