Australian Subterranean Termite

This pest is being investigated in the Nelson area.

If you suspect you have found this pest call 0800 80 99 66.

Description

The Australian subterranean termite is similar in appearance to a white ant about 4-7mm in size.

This pest lives in colonies that have a social structure similar to ants with several castes, namely king, queen, workers, soldiers and (at particular times of the year – usually November to February) alates (flying reproductive termites).

The body length of the alate is about 7.5 mm long. They have two sets of slightly brownish wings. At rest the wings lie flat and are about 11.5mm long.

There are three species of native New Zealand termite that look similar to the Australian subterranean termite. New Zealand natives are generally non-invasive and are usually found in rotting timber, tree stumps and firewood. However, they have also been found in houses that are damp or have rotten timber.

Impact

This pest can cause significant damage to wood in any form, including homes, furniture, fences and trees.

Spread

Austrialian subterranean termites arrived in New Zealand inside telephone pole, railway sleepers and wooken packaging from Australia prior to the 1970’s. In 1999 eight homes in Otorohanga area were found to be infested with termites. An extensive eradication campaign was carried out and in May 2005 the termites were declared eradicated.

Incursion response (327 Kb)

In January 2006 Australian suberranean termites were found at on property in Richmond, Nelson. Termite activity is currently confined to two neighbouring properties. An extensive eradication programme is now underway for this pest in this area.

Management

Biosecurity New Zealand actively monitors for the spread of this pest in New Zealand during high risk site surveillance.

Fact Sheet (84 Kb)

Media Releases

• Australian Subterranean Termites Eradicated (June 2005)