It was confirmed yesterday that New Zealand's application to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species conference in Bangkok, Thailand, to increase the listing from appendix III to II for nine green geckos, had been successful.
The move meant the export of wild geckos from New Zealand for trade on the overseas market without the proper authority was illegal. Those trading in green geckos who claimed their animals had been bred in captivity would have to provide solid evidence, making it much more difficult to sell poached wild specimens.
Conservation Minister Nick Smith said the increase in protection meant international authorities would have greater power to conduct inquiries and investigate illegal activities.
''It will also mean harsher penalties under international law for people found to be illegally trading in our geckos,'' Dr Smith said.
Green geckos have been targeted regularly in recent years, particularly on Otago and Banks Peninsulas, because of the high value placed on them by collectors fascinated with their bright colour and striking markings.
