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What are exotic termites?

Introduced non-native termites are wood-boring insects that can:

  • cause structural damage to wood in any form including treated timbers, hardwoods, and softwoods
  • attack plywood and timbers that are considered termite resistant
  • attack dry wood in trees and plants.

But the main concern is their ability to destroy man-made wooden structures like boats, house framing, furniture, and fences.

Risk to New Zealand

Termites are classed as an unwanted pest in New Zealand. Introduced termites have been found in vessels which have come to New Zealand after international travel, and in some North Island homes.

Termites can be difficult to find. They can live in wooden structures for up to 5 years before mature termites (alates) emerge. It is often at this point that they're detected. And by then they may already have spread and caused a large amount of damage.

New Zealand also has 3 species of native termites that are not considered to be destructive and do not form large colonies.

Previous infestations of exotic termites found in New Zealand

Most recent infestations of exotic termites have occurred on boats arriving from overseas.

Since 2020, there have been eight such infestations, with the most recent detection in June 2025.  Earlier infestations of exotic termites have been declared eliminated following a period of treatment and monitoring.

Infestations primarily involve two species of drywood termites, (Incisitermes minor (western drywood termites) and Cryptotermes brevis (West Indian drywood termites), and are treated using a combination of localised insecticides and heat treatment, depending on the scale of the infestation and the materials used to build the boat.

Subsequent monitoring is used to ensure that treatment has been effective. Infestations are declared eliminated when surveillance checks over time indicate no further signs of termites.

In 2021, some residential houses in Auckland were found to be infested with Australian subterranean termites (Coptotermes acinaciformis). The houses were treated and monitoring continues.

For land-based infestations, a mix of above and below ground baiting stations are used to eradicate the termite colony. These are monitored intensely until no termite activity is seen for 3 months. Monitoring can continue for up to 5 years before eradication can be declared.

How can you help?

We need your help to report signs of exotic termite infestation. The earlier that new colonies of termites are found, the greater chance we have to successfully eradicate them.

Signs of termite presence include their droppings, flying termites (alates), and their discarded wings.

Droppings

Small piles of droppings (known as frass) like these are the most obvious early indication of termites. Termites push their droppings out of tiny holes in the wood surface. The pellets are around 1 mm long and accumulate in piles directly beneath the holes. They vary in colour from cream to red to black.

Winged termites

Termites have a flying or swarming stage in their life cycle, where winged termites (alates) leave the colony in search of mates and to establish new colonies. They generally fly in late spring and summer.

Alate wings

While you are unlikely to see flying termites, if they have been present in your house or surrounds, you may find alate wings. They discard their wings after landing in a new location. Flying termites generally make very short flights of less than 100 metres.

What to do if you suspect a termite colony

Any potential finds of introduced termites should be photographed and reported to the Biosecurity New Zealand Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 809 966

You can also report sightings using our online form.

Pests and diseases online reporting form

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