It said that the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is asking for help to find out if it is present in other parts of New Zealand, and asks both growers and the general public to keep an eye out for the harlequin ladybird, particularly on shelterbelts where aphids are present. The ladybird eats aphids and various crops.

The Harlequin is large by ladybird standards: 5-8mm long and 4-6.5mm wide, and usually has M-shaped markings in the area between the head and abdomen, with small bumps on the rear of its back.

Those who think that they have found a harlequin ladybird are asked to collect a specimen, photograph it, and contact MPI’s free 24-hour pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66.

A fact sheet with more information, including images of the harlequin ladybird compared to other ladybird species present in New Zealand, is available here.