What Pets Are Legal in NZ? Banned & Restricted Animals 2026

Most everyday pets are legal in New Zealand: cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, pet rats and mice, common cage birds, many aquarium fish and a short list of reptiles already here. Snakes, gerbils and sugar gliders are prohibited new organisms under Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act 1996, hamsters have no legal import route, and selling, distributing or breeding pet ferrets has been banned since 2002.

*Last reviewed: November 2026.*

Quick answer: what's banned, restricted and legal in NZ

If you only read one section, read this. Statuses come from our species profiles — click any animal for the full legal detail and the sources behind it.

🚫 Prohibited — cannot be legally kept in New Zealand

There is no lawful way to buy, import or keep these. If a seller offers you one, that is a warning about the seller.

⚠️ Restricted — legal only under conditions

✅ Legal — the everyday pets

Everything else in our species library is listed as legal to keep (some profiles, mostly fish, are still awaiting a full legal check; hybrid cats other than Bengals — such as the Savannah or Chausie — are not counted, because MPI's import rules name the Bengal as the only eligible hybrid cat and treat other hybrids as likely new organisms needing EPA approval): 190 dog breeds, 75 cat breeds, 33 fish, 30 birds, 20 small pets and 13 reptiles and amphibians. Council bylaws can still apply (dog registration, poultry numbers), regional pest management plans can restrict trade in some legal species (Auckland bans breeding, distributing or selling red-eared sliders, though existing pets can be kept), and the reptile list is short compared with Australia or the UK.

Deep dives on the most-asked species: hamsters · ferrets · sugar gliders · chinchillas · guinea pigs · snakes · axolotls · chameleons · reptiles overall · pet birds

The Bedrock of Biosecurity: Why NZ is Different

Our isolation, forged over millions of years, has allowed New Zealand to evolve a truly unique ecosystem. We have no native land mammals apart from bats, and our birds, reptiles, and invertebrates have thrived in an environment free from many of the predators and diseases common elsewhere. This makes our native species incredibly vulnerable to introduced threats. A single invasive species, or a new disease, could have catastrophic consequences for our environment, economy, and even public health.

This is where the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) comes in. MPI is the government agency responsible for protecting New Zealand from biological risks. Their biosecurity measures cover everything from international borders to domestic regulations, ensuring that any animal or plant material entering the country, or moving within it, poses minimal risk. For pets, this means that, other than cats and dogs, only rabbits and guinea pigs from Australia and chinchillas from Great Britain can be imported (some ornamental fish can also come in under a separate process), any species new to New Zealand needs EPA approval under the HSNO Act 1996 before it can be imported or released, and there are strict rules about what can and cannot be kept within our borders.

Understanding the Legal Landscape: Prohibited, Restricted, and Legal

Before diving into specific animals, it's crucial to understand the legal classifications that govern pet ownership in New Zealand:

Prohibited Animals (Banned)

These animals cannot lawfully be imported into New Zealand. For species on Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act 1996, no approval can be issued at all. Knowingly, recklessly or negligently possessing a new organism that was imported or released in breach of the Act is an offence under section 109.

Restricted Animals

Restricted animals are those that may be permitted under specific conditions, or whose ownership is subject to particular local council bylaws or national regulations. This often means you might need a special permit, or that certain activities (like breeding or selling) are prohibited, or that they are restricted in specific geographical areas. Ferrets are a prime example: selling, breeding and distributing them has been banned nationwide since 2002, and Auckland's regional pest plan adds its own rules, as we'll explore further.

Legal Animals

These are animals that are generally permitted to be kept as pets in New Zealand without requiring special permits from MPI, provided they are not subject to local council bylaws (e.g., dog breed restrictions, limits on poultry numbers). This category includes most common domestic pets like cats, dogs (with some breed exceptions), rabbits, guinea pigs, and many common bird and fish species, as well as a limited range of exotic reptiles already kept here (reptiles cannot be imported as pets) and some invertebrates.

The Banned List: Animals You Can't Import, Buy or Keep in NZ

This list is not exhaustive but covers the most-asked-about animals that are banned or heavily restricted in New Zealand. Not every entry is banned outright: some can't be imported or kept at all, some can't be imported or sold but may still be kept, and some rules apply only in certain regions — each entry says which. Being legal overseas doesn't make an animal legal here, but "can't be imported" isn't the same as "illegal to keep": other than cats and dogs, MPI only allows rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas to be imported as pets, yet many other animals already in New Zealand are legal to own.

1. Sugar Gliders (Petaurus breviceps)

These adorable, nocturnal marsupials are popular exotic pets in many parts of the world, known for their ability to 'glide' between trees. However, sugar gliders are strictly prohibited in New Zealand. Sugar gliders belong to the family Petauridae, and every member of that family is listed in Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act 1996 as a prohibited new organism, so no approval can be issued to import one. For the full legal status and legal alternatives, see our sugar glider NZ guide.

2. Hamsters (Various Species)

There is no legal way to get a pet hamster of any species (e.g., Syrian, Dwarf, Roborovski) in New Zealand. Hamsters are not on the HSNO Act's Schedule 2 prohibited list, but there is no lawful way to bring one in: other than cats and dogs, MPI only allows rabbits and guinea pigs from Australia and chinchillas from Great Britain to be imported as pets. For the full picture — what the law actually says, why there is no lawful supply, and which small pets you *can* keep here — see Are hamsters legal in NZ?.

3. European Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus): Regional Rules

While often seen foraging in our gardens, the European hedgehog is an introduced pest species in New Zealand, not a native animal. They are a significant predator of native invertebrates, lizards, and ground-nesting birds and their eggs. They can't be imported as pets (other than cats and dogs, MPI only allows rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas in), and regional pest management plans add further rules that vary by region. In the Auckland region, the Regional Pest Management Plan says you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any hedgehog. In Otago's site-led pest areas (Otago Peninsula, West Harbour/Mt Cargill, Quarantine Island and Goat Island), no one may keep, hold, enclose or otherwise harbour hedgehogs, or bring them into those areas. Check your own regional council's pest management plan before taking one in. It's important not to confuse them with our native wildlife; they are a pest.

4. Snakes (All Species)

New Zealand has no native land snakes, though sea snakes and kraits occasionally visit its waters. Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act lists "any snake of any species whatever" as a prohibited new organism, so no approval can be issued to import one, and there is no exception for pets. This covers venomous and non-venomous species alike, from pythons and boas to garter snakes and vipers. Report a land snake to MPI's exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66. If you find a sea snake or krait, keep yourself and any dogs well away and call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468). Our dedicated page Are snakes legal in NZ? quotes the exact wording of the ban and lists the reptiles you can legally keep instead.

5. Ferrets (Mustela furo) - Banned From Sale and Breeding Since 2002

Ferrets are classified as 'unwanted organisms' under the Biosecurity Act 1993. DOC says the sale, distribution and breeding of ferrets as domestic pets has been banned since 2002. When the ban was announced, the Conservation Minister said it would exempt current pets, but the Merck Veterinary Manual gives ferrets a life expectancy of 6 to 10 years, so those pets are very unlikely to still be alive. DOC also says that to handle an unwanted organism, you need to apply to MPI for permission. We found no permission route aimed at ordinary pet owners. The threat to native wildlife was the reason given for the ban: DOC says ferrets attack eggs, chicks and adult birds, even adult kiwi, and that geckos, skinks and giant wētā are also at risk. See Can you own a ferret in NZ? for the national and regional rules in detail.

6. Most Turtles and Tortoises

Importing new species of turtle or tortoise into New Zealand is effectively impossible — they are "new organisms" that require EPA approval, and MPI's pet import rules make no provision for them (other than cats and dogs, only rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas can be imported as pets). However, some turtles are already established in the domestic pet trade and can legally be kept. The best known is the Red-eared Slider, which can legally be kept as a pet in most of New Zealand. Because escaped or released sliders damage freshwater ecosystems, the Auckland region prohibits selling, distributing, breeding or releasing them (from 1 September 2022) — but existing pets may still be kept, taken to the vet, and moved house with you, provided they are securely contained. Releasing any turtle into the wild is illegal nationwide under the Biosecurity Act 1993 and the Animal Welfare Act 1999. The real concern with turtles is their longevity — they can outlive their owners and be dumped — not that owning one is itself banned.

7. Many Exotic Lizards and Amphibians

While some reptiles are legal (see 'Legal Alternatives'), importing new species of exotic lizard or amphibian is effectively prohibited — they are "new organisms" that would need EPA approval, MPI's pet import rules make no provision for importing reptiles or amphibians as pets, and any venomous reptile or amphibian is a prohibited new organism under Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act. However, a small number of amphibians already established in the New Zealand pet trade can legally be kept, most notably the axolotl (*Ambystoma mexicanum*), sold in pet shops, and Japanese and Chinese fire-bellied newts (*Cynops* sp.). So it is more accurate to say that *new* exotic lizards and amphibians cannot be brought into the country, rather than that all amphibians are banned outright.

8. Certain Bird Species

No bird can currently be imported into New Zealand as a pet: other than cats and dogs, MPI's pet import rules cover only rabbits and guinea pigs from Australia and chinchillas from Great Britain. So exotic species not already established here, including most parrots, can't be brought in, and any species new to New Zealand would also need EPA approval as a "new organism". Birds already established here are a different case. Common mynas and starlings, for example, are listed as unprotected wildlife under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Act 1953, not as prohibited organisms.

9. Other Invertebrates

Beyond the common examples, many exotic insects, spiders, scorpions and other invertebrates can't be brought in: species not already in New Zealand are "new organisms" that need EPA approval, and any venomous new organism (one capable of inflicting poisonous wounds harmful to human health) is listed in Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act, so no approval can be issued for it. Tarantulas, popular pets elsewhere, have no pet import route either: other than cats and dogs, MPI only allows rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas to be imported as pets.

The Restricted List: Specific Conditions Apply

While the national prohibitions cover a broad range of animals, some species or situations fall under 'restricted' status, meaning their ownership is conditional.

Ferrets in Auckland: An Additional Layer of Restriction

As mentioned, ferrets are nationally classified as 'unwanted organisms', making their sale, distribution and breeding illegal. In the Auckland region, mustelids (ferrets, stoats and weasels) are also managed under the Auckland Regional Pest Management Plan 2020–2030 — made under the Biosecurity Act 1993, so this is a regional pest plan rather than a "council bylaw". That plan states you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any mustelid within the Auckland region. Importantly, these rules restrict breeding, selling and releasing — they do not add a separate regional ban on simply keeping a ferret that is already lawfully held. Regional pest plans are updated periodically, so always confirm the current rules with Auckland Council.

Specific Dog Breeds

While not 'exotic' pets, some dog breeds are restricted nationally under the Dog Control Act 1996. No one may import a dog that belongs wholly or predominantly to a breed or type listed in Schedule 4 of the Act: Brazilian Fila, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario, and the American Pit Bull Terrier type. Councils must also classify these dogs as menacing. A menacing dog must be muzzled whenever it is at large or in a public place (unless it is confined in a vehicle or cage), and the council can require it to be neutered. Councils also make their own dog control bylaws, so always check with your local council before acquiring a dog.

Why Biosecurity Matters: Protecting Our Taonga

The stringent rules around banned and restricted pets are not arbitrary; they are a critical defence mechanism for New Zealand's unique environment and economy. Here's a deeper look at why these regulations are so vital:

• Protection of Native Species: Our native birds, reptiles, insects, and plants have evolved in relative isolation, without the presence of many common predators or diseases found elsewhere.
• Preventing Invasive Pests: Many banned animals, if they were to escape and establish wild populations, could become significant pests. They could compete with native species for food and habitat, prey on native wildlife, damage crops, or spread weeds. The economic cost of managing established pests is enormous, and prevention is always more effective than cure.
• Disease Prevention: Exotic animals can carry diseases that are not present in New Zealand. These diseases could devastate our livestock industries (e.g., foot-and-mouth disease), impact our native wildlife, or even pose risks to human health. MPI's strict import protocols are designed to prevent such pathogens from entering the country.
• Agricultural Safeguards: New Zealand's economy relies heavily on its agricultural and horticultural sectors. Introduced pests or diseases could have a catastrophic impact on our farming, forestry, and fishing industries, affecting livelihoods and our national economy.
• Ecological Balance: Every ecosystem is a delicate balance. Introducing a new species, especially a predator or a prolific breeder, can throw this balance into disarray, leading to unforeseen and often irreversible consequences for the entire environment.

Navigating Pet Ownership in NZ: Practical Steps for Responsible Owners

Understanding the rules is the first step. Here's how to ensure you're a responsible and legal pet owner in New Zealand:

1. Before You Get a Pet: Do Your Homework

Never assume an animal is legal to own just because it's available overseas or seems harmless. Always verify its status. The best resources are:

• MPI and EPA Websites: The Ministry for Primary Industries (mpi.govt.nz) sets the rules for bringing animals into New Zealand and lists unwanted organisms in its Official New Zealand Pest Register. The Environmental Protection Authority (epa.govt.nz) decides whether a 'new organism' can be imported and publishes the list of prohibited organisms, which can never be approved.
• Local Council Bylaws and Regional Pest Management Plans: Check your local council's website or contact them directly. Councils may have bylaws regarding certain dog breeds, poultry, or other animals, and regional councils run pest management plans that can restrict pets that are legal nationally — for example, in the Auckland region you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any hedgehog.
• Reputable Pet Stores/Breeders: While generally reliable, always cross-reference information with official sources. A responsible pet store or breeder should be able to provide documentation of legal origin for any exotic pet.

2. Importing a Pet: A Complex Process

Importing any animal into New Zealand is a highly regulated and often costly process. For most exotic pets, it's simply not possible: other than cats and dogs, MPI allows only three species to be imported as pets — chinchillas from Great Britain, and rabbits and guinea pigs from Australia (some aquarium fish can also be imported under a separate process). No live birds can be imported, and neither can ferrets, mice and rats (other than laboratory animals), or snakes and other reptiles (except some reptiles for zoos). Cats and dogs from approved countries face strict health, documentation and, depending on the country, quarantine requirements. Never attempt to smuggle an animal into New Zealand; the penalties are severe, and you risk the animal's life and our biosecurity.

3. What to Do If You Suspect a Prohibited Pet

If you encounter an animal that you suspect is prohibited, or if you see an unusual animal in the wild that shouldn't be here (like a land snake), do not approach it. Report it to MPI's exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Sea snakes and kraits are different: keep yourself and any dogs well away and call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468). Your vigilance is crucial in protecting New Zealand's biosecurity.

4. Rehoming and Responsible Ownership

If you can no longer care for a legal pet, always seek responsible rehoming options through animal shelters, rescue organisations, or reputable individuals. Never release an unwanted pet into the wild, even if it's a common domestic animal. Domestic animals released into the wild can become pests, disrupt ecosystems, and suffer greatly themselves.

Legal & Responsible Pet Alternatives in NZ

Wondering about specific species? Chinchillas are fully legal to own, and have an MPI import health standard from Great Britain. Guinea pigs are fully legal too — the "are they illegal?" confusion comes from the hamster ban. We also have dedicated guides to monkeys, otters, New Zealand's frogs and the plague skink.

While the list of prohibited animals is extensive, New Zealand offers a wonderful array of legal and fascinating pets that can bring joy to your home. Here are some popular and responsible choices:

1. Common Domestic Pets

• Dogs: Many breeds are popular and legal, offering companionship and loyalty. Some breed rules are national: under the Dog Control Act 1996, the American Pit Bull Terrier type and the Brazilian Fila, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa and Perro de Presa Canario cannot be imported, and councils must classify these dogs as menacing, so they must be muzzled in public. Local council bylaws can add further restrictions. Dog ownership requires significant commitment and training.
• Cats: Beloved companions in many homes. Responsible cat ownership includes desexing, microchipping, and keeping them contained, especially in areas near native wildlife.
• Rabbits & Guinea Pigs: Gentle, social, and relatively easy to care for, making them excellent choices for families. Ensure they have adequate space, a balanced diet, and companionship.
• Rats & Mice: Intelligent and social, domestic rats and mice can make surprisingly engaging pets.

2. Exotic Reptiles Kept Legally in NZ

For those drawn to the unique charm of reptiles, a short list of exotic species is already kept in New Zealand and can be legally owned. MPI does not allow snakes or other reptiles to be imported as pets (only some reptiles for zoos), so these must be sourced from within NZ — and regional pest management plans can restrict breeding and selling some of them (see blue-tongue skinks below), so check your regional council's rules:

• Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps): These docile lizards are popular for their calm temperament and relatively straightforward care requirements. They need specific UV lighting and heating.
• Leopard Geckos (Eublepharis macularius): Known for their distinctive spotted patterns and easygoing nature, leopard geckos are a great choice for reptile enthusiasts. You can find more information on their care at /reptiles/breeds/leopard-gecko.
• Blue-tongue Skinks (Tiliqua scincoides): These robust lizards are known for their striking blue tongues and can become quite tame with regular handling. In the Auckland region you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any blue-tongued skink — existing pets may be kept if securely contained.

It's crucial to source these reptiles from reputable New Zealand breeders and ensure you understand their specific housing, heating, and dietary needs. Never release them into the wild.

3. Bird Species Commonly Kept in NZ

Many popular cage birds are legal and readily available in New Zealand:

• Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus): Colourful, intelligent, and social, budgies are a classic pet bird. Learn more about their care at /birds/breeds/budgerigar.
• Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus): Known for their crests and ability to mimic sounds, cockatiels make charming companions.
• Finches & Canaries: These smaller birds offer beautiful songs and are relatively low-maintenance.
• Parrots (e.g., Rosellas, Lovebirds): Several species of parrots are legal and bred in New Zealand, offering vibrant colours and engaging personalities.

Always ensure birds are kept in appropriate enclosures and provided with mental stimulation.

4. Fish

Many species of freshwater and saltwater aquarium fish are legal to keep in New Zealand. This offers a vast array of choices for creating stunning aquatic displays. Always research the specific needs of your chosen fish regarding tank size, water parameters, and compatibility with other species. Never release aquarium fish into New Zealand waterways. A popular, beginner-friendly choice is the betta fish (Siamese fighting fish) — and our complete aquariums NZ setup guide walks you through tanks, filters, and cycling.

Frequently asked questions

What pets are legal in NZ?

Cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, pet rats and mice, common cage birds such as budgies and cockatiels, and many aquarium fish can all be kept. So can a short list of exotic reptiles and amphibians already here, including leopard geckos, bearded dragons, blue-tongued skinks, red-eared sliders and axolotls. Regional pest plans can add rules, so check where you live.

Are ferrets legal in NZ?

Not in any ordinary way. Ferrets are an unwanted organism, and DOC says the sale, distribution and breeding of ferrets as domestic pets has been banned since 2002. NZ Customs lists ferrets among the animals you can't bring in. See Can you own a ferret in NZ? for the detail.

Can you have a pet snake in NZ?

No. Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act 1996 lists "any snake of any species whatever" as a prohibited new organism, so no approval can be issued to import one. MPI's pet import rules also exclude snakes. Our page Are snakes legal in NZ? has the exact wording.

Are hamsters illegal in NZ?

You cannot legally import one as a pet. Hamsters are not on Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act, but apart from cats and dogs, MPI only allows rabbits and guinea pigs from Australia and chinchillas from Great Britain to be imported as pets. See Are hamsters legal in NZ? for the full picture.

Are sugar gliders legal in New Zealand?

No. Sugar gliders belong to the family Petauridae, and every member of that family is on Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act 1996, so no approval can be issued to import one.

Are chinchillas legal in NZ?

Yes. Chinchillas can be kept here, and they are one of only three species other than cats and dogs that MPI allows to be imported as pets, from Great Britain only.

Are guinea pigs illegal in NZ?

No. Guinea pigs are legal to keep, and MPI allows them to be imported as pets from Australia.

Can you have a hedgehog as a pet in NZ?

You cannot import one as a pet, and regional rules apply. In the Auckland region you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any hedgehog. In Otago's site-led areas (Otago Peninsula, West Harbour/Mt Cargill, Quarantine Island and Goat Island), no one can keep, hold, enclose or otherwise harbour them. Check your regional council's pest management plan first.

Can you own a tortoise in New Zealand?

A few species are kept here, but tortoises are uncommon. The NZ Herpetological Society says only a few species are available, typically at high prices, with the Greek spur-thighed tortoise the most commonly kept. It also says the Greek and Hermann's tortoises are protected under CITES, with commercial trade in them strictly prohibited. Reptiles cannot be imported as pets, so one would have to come from within NZ.

Can you have a pet otter in NZ?

No. Otters are on Schedule 2 of the HSNO Act 1996, except the oriental small-clawed otter, and that species is not one of the three MPI allows to be imported as pets. See our otter guide.

Quick Summary: Key Takeaways for Pet Owners in NZ

• New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws to protect its unique environment and economy from invasive species and diseases.
• MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) is the primary authority on biosecurity and pet imports; the EPA decides on new organisms and lists prohibited organisms, and regional councils set local pest rules.
• Prohibited animals cannot lawfully be imported into NZ (e.g., sugar gliders and snakes of any species; hamsters are not on Schedule 2, but they have no pet import route either). Importing new turtle, tortoise, exotic lizard or amphibian species is also effectively barred — though a few already in the NZ pet trade (e.g. red-eared sliders, axolotls) can legally be kept.
• Restricted animals have specific conditions for ownership, set nationally or by regional pest management plans (e.g., ferrets — selling, breeding and distributing them is banned nationwide, so there is no ordinary way to get one; European hedgehogs — you must not breed, distribute, release or sell them in the Auckland region, and no one may keep them in Otago's site-led areas around Dunedin).
• Always verify an animal's legal status with MPI and your local council *before* acquiring it.
• Never attempt to import a prohibited animal or release an unwanted pet into the wild.
• Report any suspected prohibited animals or unusual sightings to MPI immediately.
• Many legal and wonderful pet alternatives exist in NZ, including common domestic pets, exotic reptiles already kept in NZ (like leopard geckos and bearded dragons), axolotls, and various bird and fish species.
• Responsible pet ownership involves understanding and adhering to all national and local regulations.

By understanding and respecting New Zealand's biosecurity laws, you contribute to the protection of our precious natural heritage and ensure a safe and thriving environment for all. Choose your pets wisely and enjoy the unique bond they bring, knowing you're doing your part for Aotearoa.

Sources

• New Zealand Legislation — *Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996, Schedule 2 and sections 25 and 109*: the list of prohibited new organisms, the bar on approvals for them, and the offence of knowingly, recklessly or negligently possessing a new organism imported in breach of the Act. https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1996/0030/latest/DLM386556.html
• Department of Conservation — *Ferrets* (ferrets are an unwanted organism, and their sale, distribution and breeding as domestic pets has been banned since 2002). https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/animal-pests-and-threats/ferrets/
• Department of Conservation — *Sea snakes and kraits*: visits to NZ waters and what to do if you find one. https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-animals/marine-fish-and-reptiles/sea-snakes-and-kraits/
• Department of Conservation — *Official Information Act response OIAD-6145* (24 March 2026): no native land snake species. https://fyi.org.nz/request/33740/response/141191/attach/html/3/OIAD%206145%20Response%20Hunua.pdf.html
• Ministry for Primary Industries — *How to report an exotic pest or disease*: the 0800 80 99 66 hotline. https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity/how-to-find-report-and-prevent-pests-and-diseases/report-a-pest-or-disease
• Merck Veterinary Manual — *Ferrets at a glance*: life expectancy of 6 to 10 years. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/multimedia/table/ferrets-at-a-glance
• NZ Herald / NZPA — *Government to ban pet ferrets* (28 March 2002): the reason given and the exemption for current pets. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/government-to-ban-pet-ferrets/PB6VTFPQUYW35APFPFZJIMDZBQ
• Department of Conservation — *Turtle time is a long time*: red-eared sliders can be kept as pets but are banned from sale in Auckland. https://www.doc.govt.nz/news/media-releases/2024-media-releases/turtle-time-is-a-long-time/
• New Zealand Customs Service — *Bringing pets and animals into New Zealand*: the animals you can't bring in, and the prohibited dog breeds and types. https://www.customs.govt.nz/travel-to-and-from-new-zealand/move-to-new-zealand-permanently/import-pets-and-animals
• Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) — *Prohibited organisms in New Zealand*: organisms that must never be imported, developed, field tested or released here (e.g. snakes of any species, squirrels, gerbils, and Petauridae such as sugar gliders). https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry-areas/new-organisms/prohibited-organisms-in-new-zealand/
• EPA — *About new organisms*: any species new to New Zealand needs EPA approval to import, develop, field test or release, under the HSNO Act 1996. https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry-areas/new-organisms/about-new-organisms/
• Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) — *Bringing pets to NZ (other than cats and dogs)*: other than cats and dogs, only chinchillas from Great Britain and rabbits and guinea pigs from Australia can be imported as pets; no live birds can be imported, and ferrets, mice and rats (except laboratory animals) and snakes and other reptiles (except some reptiles for zoos) cannot be imported. https://www.mpi.govt.nz/bring-send-to-nz/pets-travelling-to-nz/bringing-pets-to-nz-other-than-cats-and-dogs

• Auckland Council, Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau — *Blue-tongued skink*: you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any blue-tongued skink within the Auckland region; existing pets may be retained if securely contained. https://www.tiakitamakimakaurau.nz/protect-and-restore-our-environment/pests-in-auckland/pest-search/tilsci/
• Auckland Council, Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau — *Hedgehog*: you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any hedgehog within the Auckland region. https://www.tiakitamakimakaurau.nz/protect-and-restore-our-environment/pests-in-auckland/pest-search/erieur/
• Auckland Council, Tiaki Tāmaki Makaurau — *Mustelids (ferret, stoat, weasel)*: you must not breed, distribute, release or sell any mustelid within the Auckland region. https://www.tiakitamakimakaurau.nz/protect-and-restore-our-environment/pests-in-auckland/pest-search/musfur/
• Otago Regional Council — *Hedgehog*: in Otago's site-led areas (Otago Peninsula, West Harbour/Mt Cargill, Quarantine Island and Goat Island) no one can keep, hold, enclose or otherwise harbour hedgehogs. https://www.orc.govt.nz/environment/biosecurity-and-pests/animal-pests/hedgehog
• New Zealand Herpetological Society — *Exotic pets*: commonly held exotic reptiles and amphibians in New Zealand include leopard geckos, bearded dragons, blue-tongued skinks, red-eared sliders, axolotls and fire-bellied newts. https://www.reptiles.org.nz/herpetofauna/exotic-pets
• New Zealand Legislation — *Dog Control Act 1996, Schedule 4*: the Brazilian Fila, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario and American Pit Bull Terrier type are subject to a ban on importation and muzzling; section 33C requires councils to classify these dogs as menacing. https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1996/0013/latest/DLM375498.html

*Checked November 2026.*