Is New Zealand's new Noble False Widow Spider Dangerous?

The noble false widow spider (Steatoda nobilis), one of the world’s most invasive spiders, has officially established itself in New Zealand. First confirmed in Porirua in November 2024, it has since spread to Christchurch, Nelson, Northland, and Waikato. While less dangerous than the infamous black widow, its venom can still cause painful bites and potential health risks for Kiwis.

Where has the noble false widow spider been found in New Zealand?

After the first confirmed sighting in Porirua, the noble false widow has now been seen in:

• Northland
• Waikato
• Wellington
• Nelson
• Christchurch

This spider thrives in urban settings, especially gardens and outdoor spaces. They are often found under plant pots, tarpaulins, fence crevices, and outdoor furniture. Males are more active at night and can be seen on exterior walls or the ground around buildings.

The noble false widow spider originally came from the Canary Islands and Madeira but is now widespread in Europe, the Americas, and, worryingly, New Zealand.‍

What does the noble false widow spider look like?

How to identify a noble false widow spider

If you think you’ve spotted a noble false widow spider, look for these features:

• Size: Noble false widow spiders are relatively small, adult females typically have a body length of 8.5 to 14 mm, while males are slightly smaller, ranging from 7 to 10 mm. Their leg span can reach about 25 mm.
• Colour: Shiny dark brown or black body with cream markings that may look like a skull, although these markings can be faint or absent, particularly in adult females.
• Abdomen: Bulbous and rounded, similar to the shape of a black widow but lighter in colour and without their characteristic red hourglass markings.
• Legs: Long, reddish-orange or brown legs that are fairly thin.

To view more examples of the noble false widow, check out the sightings on the iNaturalist website here.

What are the effects of a noble false widow spider bite?

While generally not aggressive, the noble false widow will bite if it feels threatened.

• Mild Effects: Redness, swelling, and pain similar to a bee sting.
• Serious Reactions: In rare cases, bites can lead to tissue necrosis, nausea, dizziness, low blood pressure, impaired mobility and secondary bacterial infections.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Some infections from bites may not respond to standard antibiotics, which is a growing medical concern according to Massey University researchers.

‍What to do if you’re bitten by a noble false widow spider

While bites from the noble false widow spider are generally mild, it’s still wise to treat them with care. If you think you’ve been bitten:

• Clean the bite area thoroughly with soap and water, or an antiseptic, to help prevent infection.
• Apply a cool compress to reduce pain and swelling.
• Mark the area, drawing a circle around any redness or swelling can help you see if it’s spreading.
• Monitor your symptoms over the next few hours. Most bites clear up on their own, but watch for signs of a more serious reaction like increasing pain, fever, or spreading redness.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or you feel unwell. Some infections linked to noble false widow bites may be resistant to standard antibiotics, so prompt medical care can help prevent complications.

If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to get a bite checked by a healthcare professional — especially if you experience unusual or severe symptoms.

‍What should you do if you see a noble false widow spider?

If you find a spider that matches this description:

• Do not touch it directly.
• If safe to do so, take a photo and report your sighting on the citizen science platform iNaturalist NZ.
• Call a pest control expert, like JAE, if you notice multiple spiders or suspect they’re breeding on your property.

‍How to prevent noble false widow spiders around your home?

Keep your home and garden less inviting for these unwelcome guests with a few simple steps:

• Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundations.
• Keep outdoor areas tidy, especially under pots, furniture, and tarpaulins.
• Shake out shoes, gloves, or blankets that have been stored in sheds or garages.

Book regular pest control inspections to catch infestations early.

‍Stay safe with JAE’s nationwide pest control services

At JAE, we know that pests like the noble false widow spider can be unsettling for your family and pets. Our experienced technicians offer professional pest control services across New Zealand, using safe and effective treatments to control spiders and keep your property protected year-round.

If you’re concerned about spiders, insects, or any other pests, get in touch with your local JAE team today for trusted, nationwide service.

‍FAQs

Q: How dangerous is the noble false widow spider?
A: The noble false widow’s bite is usually mild but can cause pain, swelling, or in rare cases, more severe reactions or infections that may be resistant to antibiotics. If you are bitten, clean the area with antiseptic, monitor for worsening symptoms, and seek medical help if needed.

‍Q: Are pets at risk from noble false widow spiders?
‍A: Bites to cats or dogs are very rare but possible if a curious pet disturbs a spider. In most cases, the effects are mild, but it’s wise to keep pets away from areas where spiders might hide and speak to a vet if you suspect your pet has been bitten.

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