Be a responsible turtle or other reptile owner
Taking on a pet reptile requires 100 per cent commitment. They can grow to the size of a dinner plate and live for more than 30 years. If released, they threaten native species and waterways. Plan for lifelong care never release them into the wild.
Care for your pet and our environment
Plan for the long term
Before choosing a pet lizard or turtle, research its needs carefully. This includes:
- habitat requirements
- diet
- space needs
- lifespan
- how large it will grow over time.
Ask yourself if you can provide proper care for the animal for its whole life, including when it is fully grown. Consider the ongoing costs of housing, heating, food and veterinary care.
Keep them secure
Keep your pet turtle or lizard in a secure enclosure at all times. This includes cleaning, playtime and when windows or doors are open. Check enclosures regularly for damage.
Rehome responsibly
If you can no longer care for your lizard or turtle, never release it into the wild. Instead, find a responsible new owner or contact one of the rescue organisations listed in the next section.
If you need to rehome your pet reptile or find an escape pet, contact one of these non-profit organisations below. If you are unable to get a turtle to a rescue centre, contact us. In the meantime, do your best to care for it – what’s most important is that it does not escape or get released into the wild.
Who can help you rehome your reptile
Be Kind Exotic Animal Rescue
Helps with reptiles, amphibians, parrots, and fish.
Phone: 028 416 7498
Visit Facebook page
North Shore Turtle, Reptile, Amphibian and Fish Rescue
Assists with both turtles and lizards.
Phone: 021 035 2881
Visit Facebook page
Turtle Rescue
Helps with turtles.
Phone: 021 202 0185
Visit website
Turtle Haven
Rescue service for turtles and other reptiles
Phone: (09) 298 9099
Adress and contact details
SPCA
Due to capacity, the SPCA will not take turtles unless they are sick, injured or otherwise compromised.
Managing exotic reptiles
Check your species can be legally sold or bred
There are some species, like the invasive red-eared slider turtle, that cannot be bred or sold in Auckland and are classified as pests. Check our Pest Search tool to learn what's allowed.
What to do if you spot one in the wild
If you see a red-eared slider turtle in the wild, please take a photo and report it to Auckland Council at pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
Why releasing your pet is harmful
Releasing pet reptiles into the wild has serious consequences, including:
- Animal welfare concerns: releasing or allowing exotic animals to escape puts these pets at risk of starvation, predators and suffering in an unfamiliar environment.
- Threat to native species: exotic turtles and lizards compete with our native populations for food and habitat. They can spread diseases to indigenous species and prey on native insects, lizards, and frogs.
- Disruption to ecosystems: turtles eat a wide variety of aquatic plants, fish, insects and even baby birds. This puts strain on our already under pressure ecosystems. They can also steal native birds' nesting sites and reduce water quality in waterways.
- Property damage: turtles dig holes in gardens, golf courses, and parks to lay their eggs, causing damage to public and private property.
- Risk of invasive populations: many reptile species available for sale can survive and breed in New Zealand's climate, potentially establishing permanent invasive populations.
Contact us for more information
- Email: pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Phone: 09 301 0101
