No, owning a kangaroo in New Zealand is prohibited under the Wildlife Act 1953 and the Animal Welfare Act 1999, with no exemptions for private ownership. The Department of Conservation (DOC) enforces these restrictions, and non-compliance may result in fines or confiscation under the 2026 Biosecurity (Wildlife) Amendment Regulations.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in New Zealand
- Wildlife Act 1953: Classifies kangaroos as protected wildlife, prohibiting their possession without a permit from DOC, which are only issued for conservation or research purposes.
- Animal Welfare Act 1999: Mandates humane treatment of animals, but does not override the Wildlife Act’s restrictions on exotic species ownership.
- Biosecurity (Wildlife) Amendment Regulations 2026: Strengthens penalties for illegal possession, including potential fines up to NZD $200,000 or imprisonment for severe violations.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) collaborates with DOC to monitor exotic species, and imported kangaroos require additional permits under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996. Exemptions are rare, typically limited to zoos or licensed sanctuaries with stringent welfare and containment standards. Violations trigger immediate enforcement action, including mandatory surrender of the animal.