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The world wide spread of exotic mosquitoes which may act as vectors for serious illnesses is a threat to public health. The New Zealand environment is conducive to the survival of exotic mosquitoes and it is possible that such mosquitoes could establish in the South Island.
 The Canterbury region has two international gateways which could be entry points for exotic mosquitoes; Christchurch International Airport and Lyttelton Port. Staff from Community and Public Health undertake routine mosquito surveillance programmes, carries out mosquito audit surveys at Lyttelton Port and Christchurch International Airport on a regular basis, respond to exotic mosquito interceptions and/or incursions, and answer and process public complaints regarding mosquito issues.
Lyttelton Port is recognised as one of New Zealand's busiest seaports, receiving tonnes of high risk cargo weekly. High risk cargo includes imported tyres, and motor vehicles and machinery from destinations such as Japan and other Asian countries. Lyttelton Port also has suitable mosquito habitats in very close proximity. These include vegetation and established bush, and an urban environment in close proximity.
Christchurch International Airport receives passengers and cargo from around the world. Christchurch International Airport does not have much in the way of bush surrounds, but does have many sites that would suit container-breeding mosquitoes. Sheep are farmed on the lands adjacent to the runways. The sheep are a potential blood meal for exotic mosquitoes, with a water race providing mosquito larval habitat.
New Zealand has very few mosquito species: 12 native and 3 introduced. The three species of exotic mosquitoes in New Zealand are well established and have proven arboviral vector competence. In addition, the Southern Salt Marsh Mosquito is an introduced species of undetermined status as eradication programmes continue throughout New Zealand.
The possibility of other species establishing in New Zealand is also of concern. Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger Mosquito), a competent vector for Ross River Virus and Dengue Fever, is potentially the most significant species. Over the past ten years, there have been a number of interceptions of exotic mosquitoes with the potential to establish in parts of New Zealand.
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Landcare Research
Mosquitoes (Ministry of Health)
Biosecurity New Zealand (MAF)
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