Wasps are a diverse and often misrepresented group of insects. While some wasp species play a beneficial role in the ecosystem, others can become aggressive pests, especially when they build wasp nests near homes and businesses. In New Zealand, three primary introduced species cause the most trouble: the Common Wasp (Vespula vulgaris), the German Wasp (Vespula germanica), and the Asian Paper Wasp (Polistes chinensis). Understanding their characteristics, nesting habits, and behaviours is crucial for controlling wasps effectively and maintaining a balanced environment.
Most Common Types of Wasps in NZ
Common Wasp (Vespula vulgaris)
The Common Wasp – there’s a clue in that name, is one of the most problematic wasp species in New Zealand. Slightly smaller than the German Wasp, it is still highly aggressive and territorial. Common wasp nests are often found in wall cavities, underground burrows, and trees, making them a significant nuisance to homeowners. These social wasps live in large colonies, with tens of thousands of worker wasps defending the nest. Their painful sting makes them a serious threat, especially to those allergic to wasp venom.
Asian Paper Wasp (Polistes chinensis)
Unlike Vespula wasps, Asian Paper Wasps are part of the paper wasp species. They have long legs, a slender body, and distinctive yellow stripes. Their open-comb nests, often found on fences, walls, and in roof guttering, house smaller colonies than common and German wasps. Although they are less aggressive, they will defend their nest if disturbed. Paper wasp nests are structured differently from those of Vespula species, lacking the enclosed, papery exterior typical of more aggressive species.
German Wasp (Vespula germanica)
The German Wasp is one of the largest pest wasps in NZ, growing up to 20mm in length. German wasp nests can be found in ceilings, gardens, and wall cavities, housing vast numbers of worker wasps. Known for their aggressive and troublesome nature, we refer to them as the heavyweights of the wasp world, and they can sting multiple times without losing their stinger. This species has displaced common wasps from certain regions as their colonies expand rapidly. Their dominance has led to significant ecological consequences, as they consume massive amounts of honeydew, depriving native insects and birds of a vital food source.
Wasp Identification and Life Cycle
Wasps in New Zealand, both social and solitary species, have distinctive characteristics that make them identifiable. Most species share common traits, such as three body segments, thin waists, and two pairs of wings. Their bright yellow bands and black markings serve as a warning to predators. Social wasps, like Vespula vulgaris and Vespula germanica, live in large colonies with complex nesting habits, while solitary wasps, such as sand wasps and spider wasps, prefer individual nests.
The wasp life cycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Queen wasps emerge from their hibernation in early spring, laying eggs that hatch into larvae. These developing larvae rely on proteins from other insects, which worker wasps hunt and bring back to the nest. As summer progresses, the colony grows exponentially, with nests reaching peak population levels. By late summer, the colony begins to decline, but new queens are produced to continue the cycle in the following season.
Wasp Behaviour and Diet
Wasps play a dual role in the ecosystem. While some wasps feed on other insects and help control pest populations, others become a major nuisance by scavenging sugary foods. Adult wasps primarily consume nectar, honeydew, and fruit, while their larvae require protein. Some species, such as parasitic wasps, lay their eggs inside host insects, while mud dauber wasps and potter wasps construct small solitary wasps’ nests using mud to house their larvae.
Social species like Vespula wasps are highly aggressive when foraging and defending their nests. Their diet changes throughout the season, with early-stage worker wasps focusing on hunting other insects and later-stage adults seeking out sugary foods. This behaviour explains why wasps become particularly problematic in late summer when food sources dwindle, and they invade picnics, gardens, and outdoor spaces.
Controlling Wasps: What Works & What Doesn’t
DIY Methods (Use with Caution!)
Some homeowners attempt DIY wasp control by using fly sprays or setting up homemade wasp traps. While these methods can reduce wasp numbers, they rarely eliminate a colony. Killing individual wasps does not address the underlying problem, as nests will continue producing more worker wasps with a Queen able to lay up to 100 eggs per day. Attempting to destroy an active wasp nest without proper protective gear can be dangerous, as disturbed wasps will swarm and sting repeatedly to protect their colony. Using insect dust can be effective for treating nest entrances but is susceptible to wind and rain and professional guidance is recommended.
Professional Wasp Control (Highly Recommended!)
For a lasting solution, professional wasp control services are the best option. Experts use targeted treatments such as insecticidal dust injected into the nest to eliminate entire colonies. Professionals also advise on preventative measures, such as sealing entry points and property maintenance, to deter wasps from returning.
The Impact of Introduced Wasp Species in NZ
New Zealand’s ecosystem has been significantly affected by the introduction of invasive wasp species. German wasps and common wasps have displaced native wasps and other beneficial insects by dominating food sources and nesting sites. Their presence has led to a decline in native birds that rely on honeydew and native-scale insects as a food source. Asian paper wasps, another invasive species, also contribute to ecological imbalances by outcompeting native insects.
Native NZ Wasps: The Unsung Heroes
Unlike their invasive counterparts, native wasps contribute positively to the ecosystem. Sand wasps, spider wasps, and parasitic wasps help regulate insect populations by preying on beetle grubs, caterpillars, and spiders. These solitary insects rarely sting humans and play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance. Some species, such as parasitic wasps, lay a single egg inside a host, allowing the larvae to develop by consuming the host from within. Other wasp species, like flower wasps, pollinate plants while feeding on nectar. Recognising the benefits of native wasps is essential in distinguishing between harmful and helpful species.
Conclusion
Understanding the different wasp types in New Zealand is key to managing infestations and protecting native biodiversity. While wasps play an essential role in controlling other insects, invasive species have become a major problem, threatening native insects and birds. Effective wasp control involves professional intervention, preventative measures, and informed decision-making to keep wasp populations in check.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of wasps are in NZ?
New Zealand hosts both native and introduced wasp species, including the Common Wasp, German Wasp, and Asian Paper Wasp. Native wasps, such as sand wasps and parasitic species, play a beneficial and worthwhile role in the ecosystem.
What is the most aggressive wasp?
The German Wasp (Vespula germanica) is considered one of the most aggressive wasps in New Zealand, capable of stinging multiple times and defending its nest fiercely, which can often lead to hospitalisation.
What are the most common wasps?
The most common pest wasps in New Zealand are the Common Wasp (Vespula vulgaris), German Wasp (Vespula germanica), and Asian Paper Wasp (Polistes chinensis).
What is the most toxic wasp?
While all wasp stings contain venom, the German Wasp’s sting is particularly painful and can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals.