Common NZ Spiders
New Zealand is home to a diverse range of spider species, with approximately 1,100 types found across the country. Many of these spiders are unique to our beautiful lands, thanks to our isolated ecosystem. The good news? Almost all of them are harmless to humans.
Here are five common spiders you might encounter in New Zealand homes. For a more extensive guide, check out our Spider Identification Chart.
1. Daddy Longlegs (Pholcus phalangioides)
Description: Known for their incredibly long, thin legs and small bodies, daddy longlegs are some of the most recognizable spiders. They often build messy, irregular webs in sheltered areas of homes.
What They Do: These spiders feed on small insects, including other spiders, making them a natural pest control ally. Despite myths about their venom, they pose no threat to humans.
Impact on Homes: Harmless to homes, but their webs can create a slightly untidy appearance if left unchecked.
2. Black House Spider (Badumna insignis)
Description: Black house spiders are medium-sized, dark-colored spiders that weave dense, funnel-shaped webs, usually in corners or crevices.
What They Do: They prey on insects, helping to keep other pests under control. Black house spiders are shy and prefer to stay hidden.
Impact on Homes: Their webs can accumulate dust and debris, but they’re otherwise harmless to structures and humans.
3. Garden Orb-Weaver Spider (Eriophora pustulosa)
Description: With their large, round abdomens and intricate web designs, garden orb-weavers are often spotted outdoors but occasionally find their way inside.
What They Do: These spiders build beautiful orb-shaped webs to catch flying insects at night. They’re not aggressive and are beneficial for controlling pests.
Impact on Homes: Mostly outdoor dwellers, they’re harmless to both people and property but might spin webs across pathways or doorways.
4. Katipō Spider (Latrodectus katipo)
Description: One of New Zealand’s few venomous spiders, the katipō is small with a black body and a distinctive red stripe. It’s rare and primarily found in coastal areas.
What They Do: Katipō spiders feed on small insects and rarely come into contact with humans. Their bites can be serious but are extremely uncommon.
Impact on Homes: Not a concern for most homes due to their limited habitat and reclusive nature.
5. White-Tailed Spider (Lampona cylindrata)
Description: Recognizable by their elongated bodies and white-tipped abdomens, white-tailed spiders are nocturnal hunters that don’t build webs.
What They Do: They prey on other spiders, particularly those that weave webs. While their bites can cause mild irritation, they’re generally not harmful.
Impact on Homes: Often found in bedding or clothing, which can startle people, but they don’t damage property.
Where We Find These Spiders
These common spiders are regular visitors in Wellington homes, especially during our pest control inspections. We often encounter them in subfloors, attics, bathrooms, bedrooms—pretty much everywhere! While most are harmless, their presence can be unsettling for some homeowners.
For professional pest control advice or assistance, feel free to contact us. Whether you’re dealing with a web-builder or a wandering hunter, we’re here to help keep your home spider-free.