Top 5 Pests Commonly Found by Kiwis and How PPS Can Help

While New Zealand boasts some very unique wildlife, not all of its creatures are welcome in our homes.
Many of the pests we deal with are introduced species that can quickly make their way into homes and businesses, causing frustration, damage and health risks. That’s where Proactive Pest Solutions comes in.

Whether you live in an urban area, rural or lifestyle block, a coastal or lakeside property, or near the bush, pest invasions are a common issue.
At PPS, we understand how disruptive pests can be, and we’re here to help you identify the most common unwanted guests and show you how PPS can help solve the problem.

Here’s a breakdown of the five common pests found by Kiwis and how PPS can help.

  1. Rodents (Rats and Mice)

Rodents are perhaps the most notorious invaders here in New Zealand.
Rats and mice are attracted to our homes and businesses for warmth, food, and shelter, particularly during the cooler months.
They can cause significant damage to property by chewing through walls, electrical wiring, insulation, and food storage.
Rodents are also known carriers of diseases and can contaminate food and surfaces.

How PPS can help:

  • Short term Rodent Control plans
  • Long term ‘Proactive’ Rodent Management plans tailored to prevent future infestations
  • Solutions for both residential or commercial clients for properties of all types

  1. Spiders

Spiders are commonly found in and around buildings, homes, and businesses.
While many are harmless, some species create unsightly webs on surfaces, and their droppings can damage exterior coatings and paintwork over time.
Additionally, introduced species like the white-tail spider can pose a risk to health, causing painful bites and injury.

How PPS can help:

  • Exterior (barrier spray) Treatments – to keep spiders and other crawling insects outside!
  • Interior Treatment – completed alongside Exterior Treatment as a light ‘flush’ for anything that may already be lurking within when the exterior treatment is applied.

  1. Cockroaches

New Zealand is home to many species of cockroach. Native varieties are mostly harmless, but the introduced pests can be a problem.
For example, the Gisborne Cockroach is more of a nuisance often entering homes through open windows.
These can be treated with an Exterior (Barrier Spray) Treatment to prevent entry.

On the other hand, German Cockroaches do not come from outside – they’re typically introduced into buildings often through second-hand appliances such as fridges. They are often found in large numbers in kitchens, laundries, and food storage areas.
These cockroaches carry harmful pathogens and can contaminate food and food prep surfaces.
Traditional sprays or bombs often provide only temporary relief, and the problem often returns even worse and more widespread.

How PPS can help:

  • Exterior (barrier spray) Treatment for pests such as Gisborne Cockroaches
  • Interior Treatment – for any pests inside when the exterior treatment is applied.
  • Spray-free Treatments for German Cockroaches – no need to vacate!

  1. Fleas

Fleas are typically associated with pets, but even homes without pets can experience infestations. These tiny, jumping pests can quickly spread throughout the home, causing itchy bites. Flea bombs are costly and often ineffective as they fail to target the places where fleas are hiding, like carpets

How PPS can help:

  • Flea Treatment – tailored to prone and high-risk areas, both inside and outside your home or business.

  1. Wasps

Wasps can be particularly troublesome during the warmer months in New Zealand, as they tend to build nests in or around homes and buildings/structures. Unlike bees, wasps are more aggressive and can sting multiple times, making them a danger to humans and pets.
Wasp nests can grow large and aggressive, especially as the season progresses, and we never recommend tackling on your own due to the risk of harm.

How PPS can help:

  • Wasp nest treatments – if you can find the nest, we can treat it safely and effectively.
  • Wasp Queening – completed early in Spring or later in Autumn, targets queen wasps before they can establish nests
  • Vespex nest baiting – completed late Summer / early Autumn over a short window bait is collected by wasps and taken back to the nest causing its collapse/death.

Unwanted guests? Call PPS!

Pests can be more than just a nuisance – they can also pose significant risks to your property, health, and comfort. The best way to manage pests is to take a proactive approach and prevent infestations before they happen.

If you’re already dealing with a pest problem, Proactive Pest Solutions is here to help. Get in touch with us today.