Spiders in New Zealand
WouterSpiders in New Zealand vary in size, colour, and shape. While they are mostly harmless, a few of the species are venomous. Most spiders are nocturnal, meaning they stay inside at night.
There are many spiders in the country, but only two of them are venomous to humans. These are the Katipo and the Redback spider. The Redback is the most dangerous of the two. Its bite is not fatal, but if you get it, you will need to use antivenom.
Another common spider is the black cobweb spider. It is a shiny, round creature with white markings on its belly. Often mistaken for a black widow, the spider has been spotted in gardens in New Zealand.
The white tailed spider has a small, white patch at the end of its tail. It is about 15 mm long and has a black or grey body.
The katipo spider is a non-native species, but is protected by the Wildlife Act. It can be found in southern coastal regions of the North Island. Like the redback spider, it is venomous. The venom is not lethal, but the bite can cause soreness and infection.
The huntsman spider, or Avondale spider, is not native to the country, but it is well adapted to life in New Zealand. It is most common in the suburbs of Auckland. It helps keep out moths and other spiders.
A few other species of spiders are common in New Zealand. They can be found in leaf litter, stones, and logs. Some of them are brightly coloured.
