New Zealand Herpetological Society Inc.

The majority of New Zealand's herpetofauna (reptiles & amphibians) are endemic, i.e. found only in New Zealand. Their presence is indicative of an ancient and isolated land.

Click on the highlighted groups below for species information:

Tuatara

2 endemic (found only in NZ) species

Geckos

17 endemic species

Skinks

29 Skinks (one egg-laying skink) and 1 self introduced Australian skink

Tuatara

2 endemic species

Frog

4 endemic  and 3 adventive (introduced) Australian frogs

Marine Reptiles

Turtles

4 (regular visitors) Sadly, all are under threat of extinction

Sea-snake

1 (two other species occasionally). All are poisonous.

With advances in taxonomy (species identification), and species being re-described, the new classification may result in nearly 70 endemic species in New Zealand.

Please download our NZ native animals notes here.

Click here to see the SRARNZ list of Extant NZ Reptiles

Absolute Protection

Herpetofauna make up NZ's second largest group of species protected under the Wildlife Act. It is illegal to hunt, kill, sell, dispose of, or have in possession any protected species, without authority from the Dept. of Conservation.

General

All lizards and tuataras can shed their tails. Therefore measurements are taken from the 'snout' to 'vent' and the abbreviation "SV" is usually used. As there are many species with similar common names, amateur and professional herpetologists normally use scientific names for identification.

More Information

Photographic Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of New Zealand, Tony Jewell and Rod Morris: $24.50 (members $20.50)

Department of Conservation Website

The Department has statutory authority in herpetological matters.

If you find any reptiles or amphibians, please fill in an ARDS card (Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme).

NZBRN - New Zealand Biodiversity Recording Network

Records sent to NZBRN contribute to the Global BIodiversity Information Facility