Identify garden pests

Find-A-Pest is an innovative app that allows Kiwis to identify and report invasive species, including plants, animals, and insects, empowering users to safeguard New Zealand’s environment.

Unique to Aotearoa, the app creates a database of pest information that is used to support biosecurity knowledge and efforts across multiple organisations, including Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI), the Department of Conservation (DOC), regional councils, and primary industry groups.

Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury Associate Professor and app advisor Steve Pawson says it can be used as an educational tool alongside its critical role in identifying pests across New Zealand.

“The app uses artificial intelligence to help identify pests, and provides the user with information on pests’ habitats, and distribution. We have a team of experts who confirm identifications and send feedback to users,” says Steve, adding that the app is a valuable resource for anyone interested in protecting our environment.

“Individuals can help to detect pests early, which supports pest management efforts and minimises damage to the environment.” Recent updates to the app now provide offline capabilities, immediate identification, a simple reporting process and key information to educate users on the pests in New Zealand.

Download the app from the Find-a-Pest website.