NZ Reptile Keepers

Frequently asked questions on keeping New Zealand native reptiles

Q: How do I get a permit to keep native New Zealand reptiles?

A: An authority to keep must be obtained from the Department of Conservation. Prospective keepers may register under a general authorisation to keep some of the more commonly kept and bred gecko species. Other gecko species, and all skinks, are not covered by the general authorisation and specific application must be made by people wishing to keep such species. Authorisation for private keepers to keep animals such as native frogs and tuatara is very unlikely to be obtainable.

Q: How do I obtain animals once I have registered for a general authorisation?

A: Captive bred animals must be obtained from established breeders. No collection from the wild is allowed. Native animals can not be bought and sold, but established breeders are usually happy to distribute any surplus stock to new keepers.

Q: How do I obtain the detailed information required to successfully keep and breed these animals?

A: There is a Best Practice Guide which can be downloaded from the DOC website (see downloads page).

However that is not necessarily the full story, as many keepers have found variations in cage sizes and keeping conditions are necessary for certain species, in order to achieve the most successful outcomes. This site has been formed as a starting point to provide as much data on captive keeping as possible in one place. It is currently by no means complete, and remains a work in progress. Contact and discussion between keepers is very valuable in imparting high standards.

Q: How long do our native lizards live in captivity?

A: Some of the commonly kept species of geckos can live for over 30 years, and may live for up to 50 years. This means that keeping such animals is a long term exercise, so it is as well to be prepared to rehome these animals if changing circumstances require it.