Venomous noble false widow spider establishes itself in New Zealand

Tuesday 1 July 2025 · 5 outlets · 5 reports · updated Tue 1 Jul 2025, 2:09pm

In this story Massey University

The noble false widow spider has officially established populations across several regions, including Christchurch, Nelson, Northland, and Waikato. Scientists warn that the spider's venom can cause serious infections, some of which may be resistant to antibiotics.

How they headlined it

11:02am12:59pm2:09pm

1. Otago Daily TimesTue 1 Jul 2025, 11:02am

   Venomous spider with 'sinister bite' spotted in South Island (opens in new tab)

2. 1NewsTue 1 Jul 2025, 11:18am

   Spider with 'potentially sinister bite' establishes in New Zealand (opens in new tab)

3. StuffTue 1 Jul 2025, 11:39am

   Invasive venomous spider establishes itself in NZ (opens in new tab)

4. The PressTue 1 Jul 2025, 12:59pm

   ‘Absolutely enormous’: UK’s most venomous spider found in Christchurch (opens in new tab)

5. Waikato TimesTue 1 Jul 2025, 2:09pm

   ‘Absolutely enormous’: UK’s most venomous spider found in Waikato (opens in new tab)