The Auckland Branch of the Entomological Society caters for people with an interest in insects and other terrestrial arthropods, collectors, photographers or observers.

The inaugural meeting of the Auckland Branch was held in September 1975. Membership includes both professional and amateur members, junior and senior citizens. Membership is mainly local, but in areas outside Auckland, where there is no local branch, members enjoy the contact of others with the same interests.

Evening meetings are usually held on the fourth Thursday of the month in the Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research building, located at 231 Morrin Road, St Johns, Auckland. Parking is available on the road outside. Meetings start at 7.30 pm, note the electronic doors will be opened from 7.20 to 7.40 pm. Visitors are welcome. The meeting begins with a popular display table which allows members to share their insect finds and have access to the identification and diagnostic skills of various professionals in the group. The meeting concludes with a presentation from an invited guest speaker.

Field trips or light-trapping trips are held regularly during the summer, mostly to local areas using private transport. Occasional trips and meetings are combined with other local natural history groups.

Demonstrations in aspects of entomology are sometimes organised for amateurs wishing to further their studies. These workshops include topics such as mounting and rearing techniques, insect drawing and photography and identification sessions. Handouts on various aspects of entomology have been accumulated as an educational aid.

The committee prepares a programme of the year’s events which is sent to members. At least three newsletters a year are distributed, giving reminders of the term’s activities and general news or announcements in the entomological field. The newsletter includes a one-page item on a ‘Featured Invertebrate’.

Branch members can receive a copy of The Wētā, (news bulletin of the Entomological Society of New Zealand, which contains articles on research, new insect finds, book reviews and news items), and circulars from the parent body. They are encouraged to attend the annual three-day conference held around Easter in a different centre each year.

Visitors are welcome to come along to one of our meetings. If you would like to join the group The membership fee for the Auckland Branch is currently $15 per year, or $25 per year including receipt of The Wētā.

Subscription details can be found in our Programme.
Contact the Branch via email at entosocak@gmail.com.