Since January 2010, foreign smugglers have attempted to remove about 50 geckos from the Otago and Banks Peninsulas and take 24 Otago skinks from their natural habitats.
Seven men, all foreign nationals, were convicted of possessing and hunting protected animals. However, none of the men received more than 18 weeks' imprisonment or fines of more than $5000, and Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean said authorities needed legislation that would give them "more teeth" to deal with the issue.
Under her Conservation (Natural Heritage Protection) Bill, fines for offences at reserves and national parks will come into line with one another other, carrying a fine of $10,000 or a two-year jail term, while fines for offences under the Conservation and National Parks Act will bring a $100,000 fine.
Mrs Dean said geckos could fetch up to $10,000 each on the European black market, and New Zealand had to send "a clear message" to smugglers.
"This Bill will give those guarding our borders the teeth they need to stop the smugglers. And this Bill will give those who come posing as tourists the clear message of don't bother, we're on to you."
