A history of araneology in New Zealand

Research on spiders (araneology) in New Zealand has a 180-year history that began just before the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. Initially, specimens were collected and taken back to Europe to be described, but from 1857, studies began to be conducted in New Zealand. The first study published in New Zealand occurred in 1870 and research increased quickly, but waned between the world wars. After World War II, research output increased rapidly, with New Zealand's fauna and researchers rising to worldwide prominence. Research in the 21st century continues to gain momentum, utilising modern technologies and diversifying across biological disciplines.