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Expert Guide to NZ Spiders & Effective Pest Control Solutions
New Zealand is home to a diverse range of spider species, some of which can pose challenges for homeowners and businesses. At ALPHAPEST, we specialise in providing effective pest control solutions to keep your property spider-free. This guide offers an in-depth look at NZ spiders, their behaviour, and how our professional pest control services can help manage and eliminate spider infestations. Whether you’re terrified of Spiders or just want to keep your house’s exterior free from unsightly webs, we’re here to help.
Common Spider Species in New Zealand
New Zealand hosts a variety of both native and introduced spider species, ranging from harmless to very poisonous. Understanding these species and their unique characteristics is crucial for effective control.
White-Tailed Spider
Are an Australian import and named after the distinctive white tip at the end of their abdomen, Roughly the size of a 50 cent coin these introduced spiders sure pack a punch. Anyone who has been unlucky enough to be on the receiving end of their bite will know the pain and symptoms that can follow. White tails don’t build a web as they prefer to hunt other spiders for food and due to their poor eyesight they’ll often wander inside and end up hiding in dark areas like clothes or bedding.
Black House Spider
Are another Australian import and whilst venomous they aren’t usually considered dangerous. The black house spider are more well known for building unsightly webs around window and door frames around the home. Female black house spiders will only leave their web if forced to, which results in them having plenty of time to build more unsightly webbing for the “haunted house” look. Black house spiders are also a preferred food source of the more aggressive white tailed spider which results in the white tail population increasing.
Daddy Long-Legs
Are easily identifiable due to their ridiculously long and thin legs in comparison to their tiny bodies, whilst urban myths may claim their highly toxic they’re actually harmless to humans.
Katipō Spider
Whilst quite rare and a relative of the notorious redback spider the Katipō are actually native to New Zealand. Usually found living in coastal areas with their colouring differing across the country they are an unexpected danger at the beach. They are known for inflicting their venomous bite on humans with one bite victim having told our staff they were in “pure agony” as they drove themselves to hospital after receiving a bite to the leg whilst walking through the sand dunes. An antivenom is available for Katipō and immediate medical attention is advised if bitten.
Garden Orb-Weaver Spider
Are known for building intricate webs around your house or garden and they are largely harmless.
Avondale Spider
AKA The Australian huntsman are literally the stuff horror movies are made of and due to their large size and harmless nature they have starred in Hollywood movies in place of tarantulas etc. Mature spiders can grow to the size of a small dinner plate and have been known to generate many a scream from startled home owners finding this harmless giant on their interior walls.
Identifying Spider Infestations
Recognizing the signs of a spider infestation early can prevent it from worsening. Look out for:
Webs
Large amounts of spider webbing are not only unsightly but provide a great breeding ground for spiders
Spider Sightings
Frequent sightings can be an indicator of a large spider population. This abundance of spiders can invite harmful spiders like the white tail to take up residence in search of food.
Egg Sacs
These are often found in hidden areas and signal active reproduction.
Insect Population
High insect activity can attract spiders.
Health Risks Associated in New Zealand with NZ Spiders
While most NZ spiders are harmless, some can pose health risks:
White-Tailed Spider Bites
Can be painful causing inflammation, swelling and in rare cases necrosis.
Katipō Spider Bites
Can be very dangerous, causing intense pain, fevers and even difficulty breathing. We highly recommend seeking medical advice immediately to prevent further issues.
Professional Spider Control Services
ALPHAPEST offers specialised spider control services tailored to your needs:
Residential Spider Control
Regular cleaning reduces the number of hiding spots for spiders around the home and the vacuum cleaner is often described as the greatest spider killing tool in the world. Combined with an external barrier spray from ALPHAPEST we can keep your home looking great for longer.
Reduce Clutter
Minimising clutter helps reduce hiding spots that are great for nesting. Keeping trees and shrubs trimmed back from the house will help keep your home spider free for longer.
Commercial Spider Control
From office buildings to entire schools ALPHAPEST can help keep the unsightly spider webs away and your building spider free
Trust The Experts at ALPHAPEST
ALPHAPEST is dedicated to providing effective and safe spider control solutions. Understanding the various spider species and implementing the right control measures can ensure your home or business remains spider-free. Contact us today for a free quote and let our expert team handle your spider control needs.
Get in Touch for Effective Spider Control in Auckland
For comprehensive spider control services in New Zealand, call our experts at ALPHAPEST or fill out our online contact form to schedule an inspection. Let us help you achieve a spider-free environment with our professional and reliable pest control solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, most NZ spiders are harmless, but some like the White-Tailed and Katipō spiders can pose health risks.
Look at the spider’s size, colour, and web type. AlphaPest can assist with professional identification.
Clean the bite area, apply ice, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Regular treatments are recommended as external treatments are usually effective for 3-6 months.