New Zealand is often famed for its rugby team, indigenous Maori culture, and stunning landscapes.
One thing that the country isn’t famous for is snakes.
New Zealand is one of the only countries in the world that doesn’t have a snake population.
The country of New Zealand is geographically isolated from the rest of the world, making it difficult for animals to migrate.
The only way for animals to get to New Zealand is through humans transporting them.
Since this could wreak havoc on the ecosystem, there hasn’t been a need to do this.
So, are there snakes in New Zealand?
Below, we’ll explain everything you need about snakes and New Zealand.
Contents
So… Are There Snakes in New Zealand?
Are there snakes in New Zealand?
Aside from sea snakes and kraits visiting the country’s waters, New Zealand has no snakes.
This is because there were no snakes in New Zealand to begin with.
Over the years, the country hasn’t had any snakes added to its ecosystem, which has resulted in a snake-free country.
It’s surprising, mainly because Australia has many venomous and non-venomous snakes.
However, none of them ended up traveling to New Zealand.
This is due to the sheer distance of water between the two countries.
Snake Species in New Zealand
The only exceptions to snakes found in New Zealand are salt-water dwelling snakes.
The two spotted in the country’s waters were the Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake and the Yellow-Lipped Sea Krait.
Both species are not indigenous to New Zealand but have been found to travel there occasionally.
They don’t stay because New Zealand’s water is too cold.
Is it Safe to Go on a Trek in New Zealand?
New Zealand is one of the safest places to trek to see natural beauty.
Aside from being the home of where The Lord of the Rings Trilogy was filmed, the country is naturally beautiful.
There are plenty of mountainous areas that have hiking for visitors.
The country has no snakes, poisonous plants, or dangerous predators.
So you won’t need to worry when hiking.
You only need to worry about getting the correct hiking equipment and finding your favorite spots!
The only thing you’ll need to be careful of is the weather.
New Zealand has a harsh climate at times, making it difficult to hike.
As long as you pay attention to the weather and have the right equipment, then you’re good to go.
Interesting Snake Facts in New Zealand
Since there aren’t any snakes in New Zealand, let’s take a look at why this is.
Snakes are not only not found in the country, but there is also a ban on importing snakes.
This means that no one can own a snake, not even a pet!
New Zealand’s laws are stringent, and anyone found breaking this law will face heavy fines and jail time.
Not even zoos can own or import snakes, even for educational purposes.
This is because a loose snake could harm the country’s ecosystem.
Think about this. New Zealand’s ecosystem has been left alone for thousands of years.
The animals there haven’t evolved to survive snake attacks.
If one gets lost, it could give birth to others, and they could start causing a total ecosystem collapse.
This would cause a chain reaction that would trickle until most prey is destroyed.
There would be a massive shift in the food chain from one or a few snakes getting loose.
So, this is why there is an extensive ban on snakes and why it’s so essential none ever reach New Zealand.
3 Safety Tips for Exploring Nature in New Zealand
New Zealand is a stunning place to see, especially the outdoors.
If you’re looking to explore the wonders of this country, then you’ll want to stay safe.
While there may not be any snakes in New Zealand, other animals could interfere during your trek.
Below, we’ll give three essential tips for staying safe when exploring New Zealand.
1. Always Make Noise
Trekking through New Zealand can be fun until you run into some of its indigenous wild animals.
Wild pigs, goats, cattle, deer, and other critters are most commonly spotted when out hiking.
To keep yourself safe, it’s best to create noise that will alert the animals that you’re there.
This can be done with music, singing, or even talking.
You can alert the animal that you’re next to them by being loud.
They won’t be as startled, allowing them to move out of the area.
If you don’t notice that you run into an animal, it’s best to stay calm and slowly back away.
While many of these animals don’t bother humans, they attack when threatened.
2. Be Mindful
Not only are New Zealand’s animals territorial, but the terrain is rugged.
If you’re looking to trek safely, then it’s best to be mindful and aware of your surroundings.
You’ll find that you may run into animals more often than not.
Smaller critters won’t pose any harm, but if you’re not careful, you can accidentally walk into an animal’s den and cause them to be on the defensive.
In addition, New Zealand has very mountainous terrain.
You’ll want to watch for hills and cliffs if you’re hiking.
There are also tons of vines and other shrubbery that could easily trip you.
So, it’s best to be mindful of where you are and your surroundings.
3. Be Prepared For Weather Changes
The temperatures and weather can change very quickly in New Zealand.
So, it’s best to be prepared for the cold.
You’ll want to bring clothes that can keep you dry and warm.
Even if you don’t need it while starting, you should carry extra gear if the weather changes.
Aside from that, New Zealand is prone to flooding, which can be dangerous during a trek.
Be sure to mind your surroundings and check the weather.
If it looks like things are getting worse, then head back.
Summary
In New Zealand, you won’t have to worry about running into snakes.
They aren’t found out while hiking, and you won’t have to worry.
The only thing you should be aware of when hiking is other animals.
So, besides being prepared for the weather, you won’t have to worry about snakes or anything dangerous when hiking.
As long as you look at the potential animals you’ll run into, your surroundings, and the weather, you’ll be safe hiking in New Zealand.
Hopefully, this has helped you learn a bit more about snakes and why there are none in New Zealand!
New Zealand Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: New Zealand Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any venomous snakes in New Zealand?
There are no snakes in New Zealand, especially venomous.
Out of the venomous animals, the only one is a venomous spider called the katipo.
Other than that, the only snakes in New Zealand are saltwater snakes.
Why are there snakes in Australia but not in New Zealand?
The Tasman Sea has separated the two countries for nearly 85 million years.
Due to this, New Zealand never had any snake visitors.
So, snakes have yet to have the chance to travel or be born inside the country.
Are there no land snakes in New Zealand?
There are no native land snakes in New Zealand.
The country has been isolated for millions of years, resulting in no snake population.
Plus, New Zealand has no suitable climate for snakes to thrive in.
Additional Resources
Are There Snakes in Iceland? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Michigan? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Norway? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Jamaica? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Scotland? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Fiji? Should You Be Worried?
