An unwanted Aussie has been stopped at the border, after hitching a ride in a tent across the Tasman.
Biosecurity staff at Auckland Airport have foiled an attempt by a live huntsman spider, during a routine inspection of outdoor equipment.
The Ministry of Primary Industries trumpeted the discovery on Twitter.
"#Huntsman spider found in tent from #Australia by #biosecurity staff at @AKL--Airport! Thanks team!"
A spokesman said the large spider was found in luggage brought into the country in December.
He said while the Australian huntsman spider was not venomous, it still posed a biosecurity risk with the threat of introducing new parasites into the country.
"Our approach to huntsman spiders is when we find them, we intercept them and we destroy them."