Cockroaches are a common throughout New Zealand and are considered a low-level health threat. The American (Periplaneta americana) and German (Blatella germanica) are the main disease carrying species. Gisborne (Drymaplaneta semivitta) and Native Bush (Celatoblatta vulgaris) cockroaches mainly live outside and do not pose as much of a risk.
Cockroaches are able to survive for long periods without food and water.