The Sphecidae (Hymenoptera) of New Zealand

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Abstract
The New Zealand Sphecidae are represented by the subfamilies Sphecinae, Nyssoninae, Larrinae, Crabroninae, and Pemphredoninae. Their relationships lie with Australia, and in the genus Podagritus with South America. The sphecid fauna is isolated and restricted and 16 species are discussed. A key is given to the genera and subgenera. The names applied to these wasps are updated and present knowledge of their nesting behaviour and prey is recorded. Most species are endemic, but there are two adventive species of Australian origin. Pison spinolae Shuckard was introduced into New Zealand probably in about 1880. Podalonia tydei suspiciosa (F. Smith) was evidently stablished only some 10 years ago. Two species of Crabroninae, which normally provision their nests with flies, are reported to prey occasionally on large geometrid and pyralid moths and on mayflies.