Endemic and introduced widow spiders in New Zealand

The Excellence Series highlights research excellence at Lincoln University, providing a platform for leading academics to share insights that enhance our understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing New Zealand’s land-based sectors. By connecting research with real-world practice, these seminars foster collaboration, innovation, and informed decision-making. New Zealand is home to an estimated 2,000 spider species. Remarkably, around 93% are found nowhere else in the world, and three spider families are entirely unique to New Zealand. To arachnologists , our spider fauna is well known to be both strange and interesting! This exceptional level of endemism reflects the country’s long geographic isolation and diverse range of habitats. Among these species is the endemic katipō spider, the only New Zealand spider with a Māori name and associated mātauranga. However, New Zealand is also home to another widow spider: the invasive Australian redback, the katipō’s closest living relative. Drawing on more than 20 years of research, Cor will explore topics ranging from conservation and hybridisation to climate modelling, pheromones, somersaults, and even spider suicide. Join us for a fascinating insight into some of New Zealand’s most distinctive spiders and discover what two decades of research can reveal about their evolution, ecology, and the challenges they face in a changing environment. Wednesday 30th September 2026 4.00pm-5.30pm Inaka, Waimarie Lincoln University Timings 4.00 pm - Networking 4.15 pm - Welcome & introduction from LU Vice-Chancellor (virtual livestream begins) 4.20 pm - Presentation from Speaker 4.50 pm - Summary 5.00 pm - Networking and questions over drinks and nibbles 5.30pm - Event Ends