A pest control company is warning to check the house and shake out the bed sheets as white-tailed spiders begin their seasonal migration indoors.
The venomous spider, which is black with a distinguishable white point, moves into houses and sheds during summer in search of cool, shaded areas.
The owner of Gisborne pest eradicator Stomp'em Out, James Guyton, says the arachnid is known to have a strong venom, which in some cases erodes the flesh around the bite and they are particularly dangerous to babies.
Mr Guyton warned people to check for the spider in bathtubs, clothing, window frames, and corners of the house.
