Mosquito facts

Mosquito expert Julia Kasper tells us why we shouldn’t hate mosquitoes, how to stop getting bitten, which mosquitoes aren’t native to New Zealand, and why you’re more likely to be bitten in the summer.

Which species of mosquito in New Zealand bite?

New Zealand’s 13 native mosquito species have mainly adapted to bite birds, so generally leave humans alone. However, Opifex fuscus (the salt pool mosquito) is a vicious human-biter.

How do I stop getting bitten by mosquitoes?

Find out how you can discourage mosquitoes from biting you and breeding near your home.

Hundreds of mosquitoes in standing water

Can you get bitten by mosquitoes in winter?

Read why you might not be safe from mosquito bites in the winter, and the genius ways that mosquitoes survive the cold.

Can we just eradicate mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes have both positive and negative impacts on the ecosystem. Learn why they can’t ‘just be eradicated’.