Wasp nest, originally the size of a two-person tent, discovered in Waitākere Ranges

A large wasp nest, originally the size of a two-person tent, has been discovered in Auckland’s Waitākere Ranges.

Found in the Karekare Beach area of ​​the regional park, it is believed to have been expanding for up to two years and would have been home to tens of thousands of wasps.

Sarah Gibbs, Senior Green Advisor to the Auckland Council, said it was one of the biggest sights in a long time.

“Fortunately, this nest has collapsed and is no longer active; it is unlikely that it will be repopulated, as the queens will have already moved to settle elsewhere, ”he said.

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The “hibernate” nest was built from a collection of sticks, bark and leaves.

“Most wasp nests die in late fall after the queens and drones have produced, but a nest of this size is big enough to survive a winter,” Gibbs said.

“Queens in ‘hibernating’ nest like this will establish multiple satellite nests in spring, allowing wasps to rapidly repopulate the area as the weather warms.”

Gibbs said the discovery in recent weeks was a timely reminder to Auckland residents of the threat posed by the common wasp.

The common wasp is an aggressive pest. Not only does he have a painful sting, he is also a voracious hunter and gatherer, feeding on many native chicks and invertebrates.

“To protect park users and ecological values, we would love to hear from anyone who sees a large nest like this so we can control it before it grows and before the queens spread and create many new nests,” said Gibbs.

If you see a large wasp nest this summer season or at any time, stay away from it. Call Auckland City Council on 09 301 0101 to report your location.