Te Uku Kahika - Regional and Unitary Councils Aotearoa (TUK) led initiative to develop a more nationally consistent approach to managing the potential impacts of exotic pet species.

[maxxi1]

I have received the below email, I did share this on the FNZAS facebook page as well. 

Kia ora

 

We are writing to inform you about a Te Uku Kahika - Regional and Unitary Councils Aotearoa (TUK) led initiative to develop a more nationally consistent approach to managing the potential impacts of exotic pet species.

 

Currently, there is no nationally consistent regulatory framework covering the management of these species. Rules instead sit within Regional Pest Management Plans, which differ between regions and can be confusing. For example, Auckland restricts breeding, selling and releasing some species, while they can still be bred and sold elsewhere.

 

TUK is asking exotic pet owners/groups to participate in the attached survey to better understand the scale and volume of trade related to certain exotic species already in New Zealand, including some birds, terrapins, lizards, and newts. This survey also seeks views on the merits and the potential impacts of regulation.

 

The purpose of the survey is to provide a better understanding of the domestic trade of exotic pets already present in the country that could potentially form wild populations. It will ensure potential impacts to the sector are well understood and can be fairly considered in any future processes. We appreciate any insights the sector can share into how we could collectively tackle this problem to best protect the environment while minimising impacts on those who value exotic pets. The information will help estimate how many species are kept as pets and to enable further work on management options. The information gathered will remain anonymous.

 

Have your say – SURVEY LINK

 

This is your opportunity to provide information to support the project. The attached survey is now live, and we will be accepting responses until the 29^th of May 2026.

 

Further information can also be found at the Te Uru Kahika website: 

 

https://teurukahika.govt.nz/our-work/biodiversity-biosecurity/biosecurity/exotic-pets-survey 

 

Ngā mihi

 

Te Uru Kahika

[Caryl]

I was stuffed with the 2nd question asking which group I was most interested in and the next question was how long I had been involved with these species. I have not kept any of the groups named (except 3 budgies & a sun conure years ago) or been involved with them. I finally decided I would express interest as (5) an enthusiast who was concerned about them in the abstract..

[maxxi1]

Yeah I found the survey didnt explain that well to begin with ... I also on phone didnt realise I needed to scroll right to see a whole row of tick boxes until later and had to go change my questions.. tbh I dont see any new regulatory departments being set up with the govt of our day