New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and strict biosecurity laws. These laws are implemented to protect the country’s delicate ecosystem, which means not all pets are welcome in New Zealand. If you’re considering bringing an exotic pet into the country, knowing which animals are allowed and what the process involves is important. Read this blog to know what exotic pets are legal in New Zealand.
Understanding New Zealand’s Biosecurity Laws
New Zealand’s biosecurity laws are some of the strictest in the world. The country is home to many rare and endangered species. The government has implemented stringent regulations on importing animals, especially exotic pets, to protect this biodiversity. These laws ensure that no foreign diseases or pests are introduced into the environment, which could threaten local wildlife.
Legal Exotic Pets In New Zealand
Exotic pets are non-native animals that are typically not domesticated, such as reptiles, amphibians, certain birds, and small mammals.
When it comes to exotic pets, the list of animals you can legally own in New Zealand is quite limited. Below are some of the common legal exotic pets in New Zealand.
1. Axolotls
Axolotls, also known as Mexican salamanders or Mexican walking fish, are found in high-altitude freshwater lakes and canals. They are an endangered species protected by CITES, so they cannot be taken from the wild. Fortunately, they breed well in captivity, which helps keep the species alive. Axolotls are popular exotic pets, available in various colours, and can be found in pet shops year-round.
2. Chelonians
Chelonians are reptiles that belong to the order Testudines, which includes turtles, tortoises, and terrapins (small turtles that live in fresh or brackish water). In New Zealand, turtles are more commonly kept as pets than tortoises. Since both turtles and tortoises can live for over 20 years, it’s important to consider this long-term commitment before deciding to care for one.
3. Turtles
In New Zealand, the most commonly kept turtles are red-eared sliders, Eastern snakeneck turtles, box turtles, and Reeve’s turtles.
4. Tortoises
In New Zealand, the most common pet tortoises are the Greek spur-thighed and Hermann’s tortoises. There are only a few tortoises in the country because many of them used to die young due to a lack of proper care knowledge. Importing tortoises is tightly regulated by Biosecurity NZ. These tortoises are rare and often expensive. Keep in mind that they can live over 100 years if they are well cared for, so it’s a big commitment.
5. Dragons
Australian water dragons and bearded dragons are popular exotic pets in New Zealand. Both types of dragons can live for 10 to 20 years.
Adult bearded dragons grow to about 50-60 cm and become quite tame with regular handling.
Adult water dragons, however, need a large enclosure with a big swimming area to be happy. Males can grow up to 1 meter long and can be hard to handle. They may also bite hard if not treated properly.
6. Leopard gecko
Leopard geckos are a desert species native to Asia, including Pakistan and northern India. In the past 30 years, they have become a popular pet around the world. These geckos usually live for 6 to 10 years but can live up to 20 years in captivity.
7. Newts
Newts are semi-aquatic amphibians found in North America, Europe, and Asia. In New Zealand, you can have Japanese and Chinese fire-bellied newts, with the Japanese species being the most common. These newts typically live for 10 to 15 years, though some can reach up to 30 years.
8. Skinks
The blue-tongued skink is an Australian lizard that can live for 10 to 15 years in captivity. Known for their friendly nature and unique personalities, they make popular pets. However, it’s best to keep them alone to prevent fighting. They are usually available for adoption around December.
Navigating Pet Transport In New Zealand
If you are planning to bring an exotic pet into New Zealand, or even relocate with a pet that is already allowed, you’ll need to go through the complex process of pet transport services. New Zealand’s biosecurity laws mean that transporting pets into the country requires careful planning and adherence to strict guidelines.
Conclusion
Bringing an exotic pet to New Zealand is not impossible, but it does require careful planning and a thorough understanding of the country’s strict biosecurity laws. By knowing which exotic pets are legal and working with professional pet transport services like Airport Pets NZ, you can ensure that your pet’s transition to New Zealand is smooth and compliant with all regulations.