A bug-crushing Australian spider has established itself in parts of Christchurch.
The spider, Philoponella congregabilis, does not produce venom to kill its prey, instead, it is wrapped so tightly in the spider's silk that its exoskeleton is crushed.
The spider then regurgitates digestive enzymes over its victim and devours the liquefied soft parts of its body.
Philoponella congregabilis was first recorded in Christchurch in 2014 but has become widespread in the city's southern suburbs over recent years, according to Canterbury Museum.