Canterbury town has been hit by what is thought to be the worst German wasp invasion in 15 years.
Pest exterminator AJ Kerr says he has removed more than 18 nests from the Methven area over the past few weeks.
Mr Kerr says he has never seen a wasp infestation this bad and is blaming the hot weather.
He says the wasps are very aggressive and can be extremely dangerous for people with insect allergies. Children, in particular, should not touch nests or aggravate the wasps.
Ten nests have been discovered near and at Methven Primary School, forcing children to remain indoors during their lunch breaks.
Principal Graeme Smith says the town is plagued by wasps every four to five years and two children have been stung so far.
Mr Smith says as a precaution, children are eating their lunches inside classrooms and taking all their rubbish home to prevent wasps hanging around bins.
The school is taking steps to eradicate the pest.
