Pests

Rodents, birds, beetles, ants, wasps, cockroaches, flies, bedbugs, borer and fleas are a nuisance, and can affect your health or property.   The Christchurch City Council (03) 941-8999 can give you advice if you have a specific problem, or contact a member of the Pest Management Association of New Zealand. https://www.pmanz.nz/

Some Helpful Hints to Keep Pests Away

• Place rubbish bins outside and away from windows.   Wrap your rubbish before putting it in the bin.
• Remember to put the rubbish out each week to be collected.   Rinse recyclables before you put them in the recycle bin.
• Clean benches, stoves and tables once you have finished eating or cooking.
• Keep your scraps for the compost in a sealed container.
• Keep food cupboards clean and store your food in sealed containers.
• Check that doors and windows close properly and seal any gaps around windows, doors or roof.
• Insecticides and baits must be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
• When dealing with a major infestation, the source of the infestation must be found in order to properly remove it.

Rats and mice cause damage and create a potential fire risk by gnawing. They spread diseases and pollute food.   Try baiting traps using peanut butter or bread soaked in vanilla.   Rodents cannot chew through steel wool - try sealing holes under sinks or in your hot water cupboard with it.

Flies carry disease and spoil food.   Good housekeeping and waste disposal will help control the problem during summer.   If possible, fitted screens over open windows and doors can help.

You could try mixing 1 cup of boiling water, 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of vinegar in a jar and leave it by the window.   Pots of fennel lavender or mint placed on the windowsill or among your houseplants may also work.

Many beetles, although not significant disease carriers, can cause damage to textiles, wood and stored produce such as grains, flour, nuts and spices.   In the case of a major infestation, fumigation may be necessary.

Most spiders are harmless.   However, the white tailed spider will bite if provoked. Medical advice should be sought if bite produces blistering or ulceration.

Cockroaches carry disease and contaminate food, utensils and workbenches.   In the case of a major infestation, the frequent application of a long-lasting insecticide is essential.

Wasps and ants are a nuisance.   They can be dealt with using a long-lasting insecticide or bait.   Nests can be sprayed and removed.