1. What do I need to do to prepare for a pest control treatment?

We do ask our customers to make some basic preparations, to ensure your safety and to assist with the treatment process: Put away all food, dishes, utensils and kitchen appliances. Put away towels, toothbrushes, toilet paper and put the toilet seat down. Put away any precious items that may be knocked over. Put away all childrens toys Put away pet food and water bowls. Clean and clear any items off the window sills. Cover fish tanks and turn off the filter. Cover all beds with a sheet that can be washed later. Make sure all pets are outside. Close all the windows.

2. How long do I have to be away from the house for?

For interior treatments you will&need to be away from the house for at least 4 hours, after the treatment. For exterior treatments you can stay at home if you remain inside, and close all the doors and windows.

3. What do I need to do when I return?

Open up all the doors and windows and remain outside for at least & 20 minutes. Wipe down all the food preparation surfaces before you use them. Do not wash the windows until 5 days after the treatment.

4. How safe are the treatments?

All treatments are professional applied, and are based on synthetic pyrethroids (which are based on natural pyrethrums). The products we use have been proven safe in sensitive situations over a number of years, and are all registered and approved by ERMA – Environmental Risk Management Authority of New Zealand.

Payment is accepted on the day of the treatment We accept cash, cheque, eftpos, mastercard or visa

Borer in Auckland – What Every Homeowner Should Know

23 February 2026
Services

While most homeowners focus on general maintenance and upkeep, borer beetles may be quietly targeting the timber in your home.

These small pests can cause significant and costly damage if left untreated. Because borer activity often goes unnoticed until damage is advanced, early awareness and prevention are essential.

Here’s what every Auckland homeowner should know — and how to stop borer before they infiltrate your home.

Why Borer Target Auckland Homes

Borer beetles thrive in timber. They seek out sheltered, dry environments such as roof cavities, floorboards, furniture, and structural timber inside homes.

Borer infestations typically begin when:

Adult beetles lay eggs in exposed or untreated wood
Larvae tunnel deep into timber as they develop
Damage occurs internally, often before visible signs appear

By the time exit holes or surface damage are noticed, the infestation may already be well established.

Signs You Might Have Borer

Not sure if borer are already around? Keep an eye out for:

Fine powdery dust (called frass) near wooden surfaces
Small, round exit holes in timber
Weak, crumbly wood (especially in older homes)
Damage to furniture, beams, or floorboards

Many Auckland homes, particularly villas and bungalows, are especially vulnerable due to older, untreated timber.

How to Prevent Borer in Your Home

The good news? A few smart steps can make your home far less appealing to borer.

Reduce Moisture Around Your Home

Borer are attracted to damp wood. Fix leaks, improve ventilation, and keep crawl spaces dry.

Treat Exposed Timber

Unsealed or untreated wood is an open invitation. Applying protective coatings or professional treatments can make timber borer-resistant.

Store Firewood Carefully

Firewood should be kept well away from your home and off the ground. Make sure not to bring untreated wood indoors.

Inspect Older Furniture

Second-hand or antique furniture can unknowingly introduce borer. Always inspect and treat before bringing items inside.

Get a Professional Inspection

Borer damage isn’t always visible on the surface. A professional inspection can detect early activity before serious damage occurs.

Why Early Action Matters

Borer don’t just damage furniture, they can compromise structural timber, leading to costly repairs down the line. The earlier borer are dealt with, the easier, and cheaper, it is to protect your home.

Protect Your Auckland Home Today

At NZ Pest Control, we understand the unique challenges Auckland homes face when it comes to borer. Our experienced team offers targeted borer treatments, inspections, and long-term prevention solutions to keep your home safe year-round.

If you suspect borer, or simply want peace of mind, get in touch with NZ Pest Control today.