Native frogs fear it. Not because it is large though it can reach ten centimetres. Because it eats them. The green and golden bell frog is a voracious predator that consumes native leiopelmatid frogs tadpoles and other small vertebrates. Its introduction has contributed to the decline of native amphibian populations. Whariki. The Māori name refers to this introduced species. Early European settlers brought the green and golden bell frog to New Zealand in the 1860s likely as stowaways on ships from Australia. It quickly established itself in northern regions where climate conditions matched its native habitat. Unlike native frogs which are shy and nocturnal this species is bold active during the day and highly visible. The frog inhabits permanent water bodies with dense emergent vegetation. It prefers still or slow-flowing water in wetlands ponds and ditches. Breeding occurs in spring and summer when males call loudly from vegetation to attract females. Eggs are laid in large masses attached to submerged plants. Tadpoles develop rapidly metamorphosing into froglets within months. Diet consists of insects spiders worms and small vertebrates including native frogs. The green and golden bell frog is an opportunistic feeder that will consume almost anything it can swallow. This generalist diet allows it to thrive in disturbed habitats where native specialists struggle. Classified as Introduced the green and golden bell frog faces management efforts aimed at preventing further spread. While eradication is unlikely containment strategies focus on protecting remaining native frog habitats from colonisation. The threat to native ecosystems is significant. Native frogs have no defence against this aggressive competitor and predator. Conservation efforts work to maintain biosecurity barriers and monitor populations to prevent expansion into southern regions where native frogs still persist.