DNADRV is continuously expanding and so we will frequently be updating our pick-up and drop-off locations for the kits. The current location list can be found here. If needed, we will try our best to make other arrangements to get the kits to you.
All kits need to be received before the end of March 2026. The kits have a long shelf life at room temperature, but the sooner we get the kits back, the sooner we can start processing them. If possible, storing them out of direct sunlight would be preferred. The reason is to prevent any evaporation from taking place in the event that a tube has not been shut tight.
Ideally longer than 20 minutes, but less than 24 hours.
No, different insects fly about during different parts of the day. Any time is perfect!
Yes, absolutely! We are interested in knowing what insects are present during all weather, but please only when it is safe to do so.
On each sampling kit bag is space for you to take notes. For example, the date and time, start location and destination, the weather, etc... We then would really appreciate if this data entered into the form on the DNADRV website - quick access by scanning the QR code on the front of the kit. By entering the data on the website you go into the monthly draw to win a pack of Insects of New Zealand playing cards!
The cleaner the better, but we don't expect you to clean it for very long. If you can just be sure to give the number plate a thorough clean with WASH 1 and a thorough wipe with WASH 2, that would be very helpful. If your number plate is very dirty and you have access to warm soapy water, then a quick scrub would help loosen any dried material.
DNADRV’s sampling effort runs until the end of March 2026.
Every kit has three latex gloves provided to help minimise human contamination. Latex gloves provide a superior fit, more comfort, and better tactile sensitivity. If you have a latex allergy, please do not use the gloves! You are welcome to still sample for us, but please note in your data entry form that no gloves were worn.
Extracting, amplifying and sequencing DNA is expensive and takes time. We can minimise costs by waiting till we have a couple of thousand samples and then processing these in "bulk", which saves a lot of money. However, this means waiting a little while for samples to accumulate.
A little bit like forensics. We use the trace DNA that the insects leave behind once they have collided with the number plate. We then use certain markers in DNA to identify the species.
We do our best to minimize plastic waste by reusing as much as we possibly can. Please throw away WASH 1 and WASH 2 cloths, gloves and swab wrappers after use. Everything else please place back into your sample kit bag.
We encourage participation of all ages, however, we do advise that those 13 and younger would likely require additional guidance from an adult.
