DOC has worked closely with MPI Biosecurity New Zealand to declare rainbow skinks an Unwanted Organism. It is illegal to knowingly communicate (move); release, or cause to be released; spread; sell, or offer for sale; exhibit; or breed rainbow skinks without the explicit permission of MPI Biosecurity.
DOC is monitoring the distribution of rainbow skinks, and raising public awareness of how to limit the spread of this invasive species.
DOC undertakes surveillance of significant reserves and offshore islands to prevent them from entering these sites, many of which provide a safe haven for our rare and threatened native lizards.