Balmy New Zealand Winter Could Mean More Mosquitoes And Other Biting Pests This Spring And Summer

The mild New Zealand winter might have been a blessing for many cold-weary Kiwis but it could feel more like a curse come summer – thanks to a surge in mosquitoes and other biting insects. This winter has been the warmest on record for New Zealand, which means numerous species of insects that are typically decimated by frigid temperatures will survive through spring and summer with unusually large populations. Mosquitoes, which lay their eggs in water, will have thrived this year, thanks to lots of rainfall combined with the unseasonably balmy weather.

“With all the rainfall we've had, it's keeping everything moist and it's not really drying out,” says James Technology, CEO of Skin Technology, a New Zealand based company that produces Picaridin insect repellents. “If it stays like this for the remainder of spring, I would imagine that mosquitoes are going to be far worse this year.”

Over the past few years, James has noticed a move towards the use of natural and Picaridin based products over the traditional DEET, as more people become aware of its toxicity.

“We have noticed a definite trend towards natural repellents and Picaridin based products, mosquito bands and patches,” says James “People are realising that you need to be very careful with the stronger products, especially with children and pregnant women. Picaridin is becoming popular as it is safe, as effective as DEET and recommended by the World Health Organisation.” 

James advises that other than using a safe, reliable repellent, there are a number of things Kiwis can do to keep biting insects away

“Keep yourselves and children away from swampy, marshy areas and areas of bush and flowing water, where mosquitoes are most likely to breed,” says James. “When it comes to keeping them away from your own property, regularly drain standing water from vases, swimming pool covers, clogged rain gutters, and any other items that collect water. I would also suggest clearing rotting debris from the garden, including grass clippings, fallen fruit and leaves, as damp, decaying vegetation becomes a perfect place for mosquitoes to lay their eggs.”

Pharmacy tips to beat the bite:

1. To protect against bites, use repellent around the wrists and ankles, back of neck, ears and face below the eyes.

2. Cover as much of the body with clothing as possible and use mosquito nets at night. Once bitten, use Soov gel, which is an antispectic and pani relief, or Skin Calm for larger areas. This is often recommended in conjunction with an antihistamine taken orally.

3. Seek GP help if bite redness spreads, or there is increasing inflammation or any other allergic infectious response that is worsening. As a guide, we often recommend drawing with a pen around the site to see if the bite area is spreading or radiating from the original bite.