Govind Tekale
A breed of Huntsman spider appears to be establishing itself in Napier, according to arachnid experts. Two sightings of these large Australian spiders have been reported nine months apart in the same Pandora suburb, suggesting they may be setting up home in the area.
Associate Professor Cor Vink from Lincoln University, who reviewed photographs of the spiders, believes the repeated sightings indicate a possible population establishment. The most recent sighting was photographed in a backyard and reported to the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) on March 6, 2025.
Not New to New Zealand
Huntsman spiders have actually been in New Zealand for nearly a century. The brown Avondale spider (Delena cancerides), named after the Auckland suburb where it was found, was first recorded in 1924. Experts believe it likely arrived from Australia on imported wood used for railway sleepers.
Another species, the Christchurch Huntsman (Isopedella victorialis), was first spotted in the South Island in December 2005 and January 2006 in the Hillmorton and Hoon Hay areas.
The MPI has identified the Napier specimen as likely being Isopeda villosa, a grey Huntsman native to Australia but already established in parts of New Zealand.
Similar Post
Climate Change Connection
The changing climate may be playing a role in these spiders expanding their territory. “Introduced Australian spiders and other insects have been moving further south as the New Zealand climate warms up,” Professor Vink explained.
This movement of species due to warming temperatures represents a broader trend that scientists are monitoring across various animal and insect species.
Size and Behavior
While their appearance might cause alarm, Huntsman spiders pose little risk to humans:
- Mature Avondale Huntsman spiders can measure up to 200mm with legs outstretched
- Christchurch Huntsman can exceed 150mm
- They are fast-moving and can jump, but rarely bite humans
- If they do bite, it’s considered only a minor inconvenience
- They are primarily nocturnal
- They hunt by rushing after prey and sucking out juices
- They feed on moths, flies, cockroaches, and earwigs
Habitat Preferences
Huntsman spiders typically live under loose bark on trees, in crevices on rock walls, in logs, under rocks, and slabs of bark on the ground. While they can wander into homes, they typically hide behind pictures, bookcases, or under corrugated iron.
According to the MPI, most Huntsman spiders are solitary creatures. “They live on their own and only come together briefly to breed,” an MPI spokesperson confirmed.
Not a Biosecurity Risk
Despite their intimidating appearance, the MPI has assured the public that Huntsman spiders do not represent a biosecurity risk to New Zealand. Their presence, while notable, doesn’t pose a significant threat to local ecosystems or human safety.
For residents of Napier, particularly those in the Pandora suburb, the advice remains to report any unusual spider sightings to help experts monitor the situation.
FAQs About Huntsman Spiders in New Zealand
Are Huntsman spiders dangerous to humans?
No, Huntsman spiders are not dangerous to humans. They rarely bite people, and even if they do, their bite is considered only a minor inconvenience – similar to a bee sting. They’re more likely to run away than attack.
How big do Huntsman spiders get in New Zealand?
Huntsman spiders in New Zealand can be quite large. The Avondale Huntsman can reach up to 200mm (20cm) with legs outstretched, while the Christchurch Huntsman can exceed 150mm (15cm). Their large size is mainly due to their long legs, as their bodies are relatively small.
What should I do if I find a Huntsman spider in my home?
If you find a Huntsman spider in your home, there’s no need to panic. You can safely remove it by placing a container over it, sliding a piece of paper underneath, and releasing it outside. If you’re in Napier or another area where they’re not commonly found, consider reporting the sighting to the Ministry of Primary Industries.
How did Huntsman spiders get to New Zealand?
Huntsman spiders likely arrived in New Zealand through imported goods from Australia. The first recorded sighting in 1924 is believed to have come from imported wood used for railway sleepers. They continue to occasionally arrive in shipping containers and wooden materials.
Are Huntsman spiders spreading across New Zealand?
Yes, there’s evidence that Huntsman spiders are gradually spreading to new areas in New Zealand. Climate change is likely contributing to this spread, as warming temperatures create more suitable conditions for these Australian spiders in southern regions.
Do Huntsman spiders build webs?
No, Huntsman spiders don’t build webs to catch prey. They’re active hunters that chase down their prey. They use their speed to catch insects like moths, flies, cockroaches, and earwigs, then consume them by sucking out their juices.
