Spittlebugs (Hemiptera; Aphrophoridae) are known to transmit the devastating pathogen Xylella fastidiosa overseas. The pathogen is not present in Aotearoa-New Zealand. The country has 16 unique spittlebug species, but the information on these spittlebugs is sparse and outdated. Also present are the exotic spittlebugs Philaenus spumarius (meadow spittlebug), a known vector of X. fastidiosa in Europe, which is widespread in Aotearoa-New Zealand, and Bathyllus albicinctus, which originates from Australia and has increased its geographic range in Aotearoa-New Zealand since 2004. This highlights the threat X. fastidiosa could pose to the country. There is, therefore, a need for improved knowledge of the distribution, biology, and phenology of the insect vectors to understand the vectors’ role in the potential spread of X. fastidiosa through the landscape, should the bacterium accidentally be introduced. Trials were conducted in four regions, two on the North Island and two on the South Island, in collaboration with various stakeholders. Most spittlebugs, primarily P. spumarius, were caught in the two South Island regions. Spittlebug species collected as part of the project have been used to develop a molecular diagnostic tool to complement a taxonomic tool. Records of host plant species for P. spumarius have been extended and compared with the historical information available for Aotearoa-New Zealand, as well as the period for which adults are present. At its completion, the project will deliver new knowledge to be incorporated into the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries and Department of Conservation X. fastidiosa risk assessments for the productive and native estates, and support industry response plans in the event of an incursion through the Xylella Action Group, a Government Industry Agreement, demonstrating the power of collaboration in addressing such challenges.