Import Health Standard  
Issued under the Biosecurity Act 1993   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard 
Hatching Eggs  
ZOOLIZAD.SPE  
[Document Date]  
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TITLE  
Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hatching Eggs  
COMMENCEMEN T 
This Import Health Standard  comes into force on  [Effective Date]   
REVOCATION  
This Import Health Standard  revokes and replaces the following standards:  
 Import Health Standard for Zoo Lizards from Australia (ZOOLIZANIC.AUS), 22 October 2010  
 Import Health Standard for Zoo Lizard Hatching Eggs from Australia (ZOOLIZEGIC.AUS), 22 
October 2010  
 Import Health Standard for the Importation of Madagascan  Giant Day Geckos (Phelsuma 
Madagascariensis grandis) from Australia into New Zealand for Zoological Gardens 
(ZOOGECIC.AUS), 21 March 2000 . 
ISSUING AUTHORITY  
This Import Health Standard  is issued  under section 24A of the Biosecurity Act 1993 . 
 
Dated at Wellington this ……….. day of ....................201 7 
 
 
Howard Pharo  
Manager , Import and Export Animals  
Ministry for Primary Industries  
(acting under dele gated authority of the Director -General)  
 
Contact for further information  
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI)  
Regulation & Assurance Branch  
Animal Imports  
PO Box 2526  
Wellington 6140  
Email: animalimports@mpi.govt.nz  
 
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Contents  Page 
Introduction  3 
Part 1:  Requirements  6 
1.1 Application  6 
1.2 Incorporation by reference  6 
1.3 Definitions  6 
1.4 General requirements for import  7 
1.5 Pre-export isolation (PEI)  7 
1.6 Diagnostic tests and treatment  8 
1.7 Transport  8 
1.8 Import permit  9 
1.9 The documents that must accompany goods  9 
1.10  Transiting lizards and lizard hatching eggs  10 
Part 2:  Specified Requirements for Identified Risk Organisms  12 
2.1 Endoparasites  12 
2.2 Ectoparasites  12 
2.3 Blood -borne protozoa  12 
2.4 Entamoeba invadens  13 
2.5 Atadenovirus  13 
2.6 Iridoviruses  13 
2.7 Edwardsiella tarda  14 
Part 3: Model veterinary certificate  15 
Schedule 1 – Document History  21 
Schedule 2 – Definitions  22 
 
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Introduction  
This introduction is not part of the import health standard (IHS), but is intended to indicate its general effect.  
Purpose  
This IHS specifies the minimum requirements that must be met when importing  lizards and lizard hatching 
eggs into zoo containment  in New Zealand . 
The biosecurity risk organism s associated with the lizard and lizard hatching eggs that are ma naged by this 
IHS are (refer to Part 2 for specified requirements) : 
a) Endoparasites  
b) Ectoparasites  
c) Blood -borne protozoa  
d) Entamoeba invadens  
e) Atadenoviruses  
f) Iridoviruses  
g) Edwardsiella tarda  
Background  
The Biosecurity Act 1993 (the Act) provides the legal basis for excluding, eradicating and effectively managing 
pests and unwanted organisms.  
Import health standards issued under the Act set out requirements to be met to effectively manage biosecurity 
risks associated with importing goods. They include requirements  that must be met in the exporting country, 
during transit, and during importation, before biosecurity clearance can be given.  
Guidance boxes are included within this IHS for explanatory purposes. The guidance included in these boxes 
is for information onl y and has no legal effect . 
Who should read this Import Health S tandard?  
This IHS applies to i mporters  of lizards and lizard hatching eggs going into a zoo containment  facility . 
Why is this important?  
It is the importer’s responsibility to ensure the requirements of this IHS are met. Consignments that do not 
comply with the requirements of this IHS may not be cleared for entry into New Zealand and/or further 
information may be sought from importers. Consignments that do not comply with the requirements  of this IHS 
may be re -shipped or destroyed under the Act or  tested/ treated  in accordance with this IHS prior to release or 
equivalence determined. Importers are liable for all associated expenses . 
The costs to MPI in performing functions relating to the i mportation  of lizards and lizard hatching eggs  will be 
recovered in accordance with the  Act and any regulations made under th e Act. All costs involved with 
documents , transport, storage and obtaining a biosecurity clearance must be c overed by the importer or 
agent.  
Equivalence  
The Chief Technical Officer (CTO) may issue a direction under section 27(1 )(d) of the Act that measures 
different from those set out in this IHS  may be applied to effectively manage risks associated with the 
importation of  these good s.  Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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If an equivalent measure is approved , an import permit may be issued under section 24D(2) of the Act if the 
Director -General considers it appropriate to do so.   The details of the CTO direction on equivalence will be 
included as notes in the special conditions section of the permit to inform the inspector’s assessment of the 
commodity.  
MPI’s preference is that the exporting country’s Competent Authority makes equ ivalence requests.  
Equivalence requests can be lodged with animalimports@mpi.govt.nz.  
Transitional facility  
Any container s not intact on arrival must be made secure before the consignment is moved to the transitional 
facility. Any material which has leaked from the container must be destroyed at the port of entry.  
Following biosecurity authorisation being given u nder section  25 of the Act, the lizards and lizard hatching 
eggs  will proceed directly to the transitional facility named on the import permit.  
If the documentation and the lizard hatching eggs and lizards have met the requirements specified in Part 2 of 
this IHS and are accompanied by the veterinary certificate required under 1.9.2, they are eligible to be moved 
from the transitional facility to a zoo containment facility approved to the standard Containment Facilities for 
Zoo Animals on arrival in New Zealand.  
Lizards that have not met the requirements specified in Part 2 of this IHS prior to importation must undergo 
the required tests and treatments on arrival at an MPI approved transitional facility for zoo animals. Once the 
requirements have been met, the zoo  lizards will be eligible to be moved to a zoo containment facility 
approved to the standard Containment Facilities for Zoo Animals , and New Zealand native lizards may be 
released or may remain isolated from other lizards in a facility as appropriate to th eir biosecurity status.  
Biosecurity clearance  
A biosecurity clearance, under section 26 of the Act, may be issued when the lizards and lizard hatching eggs  
meet all the requirements of this IHS, provided the applicable requirements of section 27 in the A ct are met . 
Restricted organisms will not be given biosecurity clearance. On authorisation from the inspector, they may be 
moved from quarantine but must remain in the containment facility.  
Inspection  
On arrival, all documentation accompanying the consign ment will be verified by an inspector.  
Document history  
Refer to Schedule 1 . 
Other information  
This is not an exhaustive list of compliance requirements and it is the importer’s responsibility to be familiar 
with and comply with all New Zealand laws.  
Import Health Standards  
Other relevant IHSs must also be complied with before biosecurity clearance will be issued. These may 
include but are not limited to the following:  
a) Containers made of timber must meet th e requirements of the following: IHS: Woodware from All 
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CITES  
It is the responsibility of t he importer to ensure that the lizards or lizard hatching eggs are  accompanied by 
any permit(s) required  under CITES ( http://www.cites.org ) and/or are in accordance with the legislation of the 
country of origin. See the Department of Conservation for further details http://www.doc.govt.nz/about -
doc/role/international/endangered -species / .   
The importer is advised to clarify the status of the species of animal in relation to international agreements on 
their trade, prior to export. Lizards and lizard hatching eggs  arriving in New Zealand without the relevant 
CITES permits may be subject to seizure by the New Zealand Department of Conservation  (DOC) .   
Any requirement for CITES or other conservation -related documents  must be met by the exporter/importer.  
Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)  and New Organisms  
Importers of new organisms must meet all requirements of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms 
(HSNO) Act 1996.  
Before an inspector can authorise a new organism to go to a containment facility , the EPA must have given 
approval for importation of that organism into containment in accordance with the HSNO Act.   
Harmonised System (HS) Codes  
The harmonised system is an international product numbering classification developed by the World Customs  
Organisation (WCO). The New Zealand harmonised system is found here:  
http://www.stats.govt.nz/methods/classifica tions -and-standards/classification -related -stats -
standards/harmonised -system -2012.aspx   
Animals imported using this IHS will be under the following HS Codes:  
 
HS Code  Commodity Description  
0106.20  Reptiles; live (including snakes and turtles)  
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Part 1:  Requirements  
1.1 Application  
(1) This IHS applies  to all imports of  zoo lizards  and zoo lizard hatching eggs  import ed from Australia and 
Europe into New Zealand zoo containment , and all imports of New Zealand native returned lizards.  
 
Guidance  
 This IHS provides the requirements for : 
i) Lizards and lizard hatching eggs that meet the specified requirements for identified risk 
organisms in Part 2 of this IHS; and 
ii) New Zealand native lizards that will be directed to an MPI -approved transitional facility for 
post arrival quarantine (PAQ) on arrival to meet requirements for identified risk organisms 
in Part 2 of this IHS.  
 Only zoo lizards and zoo lizard hatching egg species with a containment approval from the EPA 
and New Zealand native species may be imported under this IHS. 
 
1.2 Incorporation  by reference  
(1) The following international standards are incorporated by reference in this IHS under section 142M of 
the Act:  
a) The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR) : a copy is 
available for re ading, free of charge, at MPI, Pastoral House, 25 The Terrace, Wellington.  
b) The Australian Marine Orders, Part 43, Issue 6  (equivalent to the New Zealand Marine Rules 
Part 24C)  is available free of charge: http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2006L03643  . 
(2) The following material is incorporated by reference in this IHS under section 142M of the Act:  
a) MPI Approved Diagnostic Tests, Vaccines, Treatments and Post -arrival Testing Laboratories for 
Animal Import Health Standards (MPI-STD-TVTL ). 
(3) Under section 142O(3) of the Act it is declared that section 142 O(1) does not apply . That is, a notice 
under section 142O(2) of the Act is not required to be published before material that amends or 
replaces the standards, guidelines  or lists incorporated under clause 1. 2 (1) and (2)  above has legal 
effect as part of this IHS. 
 
Guidance for incorporation by reference  
 Incorporation by reference means that standards, guidelines or lists are incorporated into the 
IHS and they form part of the requirements.  
 
1.3 Definitions  
(1) For the purposes of this IHS terms used that are defined in the Act have the meanings set out there. 
The Act is available at the following website: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/ .   
(2) See Schedule 2 for additional  definitions that apply.  Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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1.4 General requirements for import  
(1) In order to obtain authorisation into  a zoo containment  facility , each zoo lizard  (except NZ native 
lizards)  must:  
a) Have been r esident in one or more government -approved zoo premises , from a country that the 
CTO is satisfied meets the export country system,  since birth or for at least twelve months prior 
to export ; and 
b) Be identified with a microchip prior to export. The identification number must be recorded on the 
veterinary certificate accompanying the lizards ; and  
c) Have bee n monitored so that incidents of disease and death were  identified promptly while in the 
zoo premises ; and  
d) Meet the requirements of 1.5 to 1.7; and  
e) Meet the specified requirements for identified risk organisms of Part 2 of this IHS; and  
f) Be accompanied by an import permit required by clause 1.8 that meets the requirements of 
clause 1.9.1; and  
g) Be accompanied by a veterinary certificate as required by clause 1.9.2; and  
h) Be accompanied by a laboratory report  as required by clause 1.9.3 ; and  
i) Be directed to an MP I-approved transitional facility . 
(2) In order to obtain authorisation into a zoo containment  facility , each NZ native lizard must:  
a) Have been r esident in one or more government -approved zoo premises, from a country that the 
CTO is satisfied meets the export co untry system,  for at least  30 days  prior to  export; and  
b) Be identified with a microchip prior to export. The identification number must be recorded on the 
veterinary certificate accompanying the lizards; and  
c) Have been  monitored so that inciden ts of disease and death were  identified promptly while in the 
zoo premises ; and  
d) Meet the requirements of 1.7; and  
e) Meet the specified requirements for identified risk organisms of Part 2 of this IHS  if required ; and  
f) Be accompanied by an import permit required  by clause 1.8 that meets the requirements of 
clause 1.9.1; and  
g) Be directed to an MPI -approved transitional facility . 
(3) In order to obtain authorisation into  a zoo containment  facility , each zoo lizard hatching egg must:  
a) Be derived from lizards that have bee n resident in one or more government -approved zoo  
premises, from a country that the CTO is satisfied meets the export country system,  for at least 
12 months  prior to export; and  
b) Be derived from lizards that were  monitored so that inciden ts of disease and d eath were  
identified promptly while in the zoo premises ; and  
c) Meet the requirements of 1.7; and  
d) Meet the specified requirements for identified risk organisms of Part 2 of this IHS; and  
e) Be accompanied by an import permit required by clause 1.8 that meets the  requirements of 
clause 1.9.1; and  
f) Be accompanied by a veterinary certificate as required by clause 1.9.2; and  
g) Be accompanied by  a laboratory report  as required by clause 1.9.3 ; and  
h) Be visibly clean and free from contamination . 
i) Be directed to an MPI -approv ed transitional facility.  
1.5 Pre-export isolation  (PEI)  
(1) Lizards , other than New Zealand native lizards that are not able to meet the requirements in Part 2 
prior to shipment, must  be held in  a PEI facility approved and supervised by an Official Veterinarian  for 
at least 90 days  prior to  the scheduled date of  export . 
(2) During PEI the lizards must be i solated from other animals not of an equivalent health status.  Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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(3) Only personnel  approved under the PEI premises approval  may enter the premises. These personnel 
must  wear outer clothing and footwear used exclusively in the premises.  
(4) All equipment used in the premises must  be new, or cleaned and disinfected prior to the entry of the 
lizards , and be used only in the premises for the duration of the PEI.  
(5) All bedding and feed must be clean and free from evidence of contamination w ith ticks and 
weeds/weed seeds.  Insects specifically used for feeding purposes may be taken into the PEI premises . 
(6) The PEI premises  must be cleaned at least twice a week, and during cleaning all b edding and 
habitation material must be  replaced.  
(7) Individual health records must be kept for lizards on the premises during the PEI period and must be 
available to the Official Veterinarian. Any health problems during the PEI period must be reported to 
MPI before export . 
(8) The l izards and all animals  in contact with the lizards must be free from clinical signs of infectious or 
contagious disease for the entire PEI.  
(9) The PEI premises  must be  maintained free from mosquitoes, biting flies and sand flies.   
1.6 Diagnos tic tests and treatment   
(1) The pre -export and/or surveillance testing as specified in th is IHS must be:  
a) Conducted by a laboratory approved by the Competent Authority  of the exporting country ; or 
b) Conducted by a laboratory approved by the Competent Authority of any other country approved 
under this IHS to export zoo lizards and zoo lizard hatching eggs to New Zealand .  
(2) All products administered to meet the specific disease requirements in Part 2 must be administered 
according to the manufacturer’s instruction in the exporting country.  
(3) Where products required by this IHS have been administered, the product name, manufacturer, active 
ingredients (where applicable), and the dose and date of the treatment must be recorded on the 
veterinary certificate.   
(4) All diagno stic test(s) that are required to be used or undertaken by this IHS must be those that have 
been approved by MPI for that purpose and documented in MPI -STD-TVTL.  
1.7 Transport  
(1) In the case of transport :  
a) Air: the transport facilities and arrangements must meet the relevant requirements published in 
the IATA Live Animal Regulations .  
b) Sea: the transport facilities and arrangements must have been inspected and meet the 
requirements of the Australian Marine Orders  Part 43, Issue 6 (which is equivalent to the New 
Zealand Marine Rules  Part 24C).  
(2) No animals other than those  that meet the import  requirements for  entry into New Zealand are 
permitted to b e transported with the lizards or lizard hatching eggs  on the aircraft or ship.  
(3) Trans -shipment in any third country must be pre -approved by MPI  and recorded on an import permit 
under section 24D . 
(4) During transport to the port of departure and during transit to New Zealand a ll bedding and feed 
provided must be clean and free from evidence of contamination with ticks and we eds/weed seeds.   
(5) Only sterile peat, soft board, treated wood shavings  and shredded paper  may be used for bedding 
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(6) During transport to the port of departure and during transit  to New Zealand the lizards or lizard 
hatching eggs must be kept isolated from animals that are  not of equivalent health status . 
(7) Crates or pens used for transporting the lizards or lizard hatching eggs  to New Zealand are eithe r new 
or if previously used must be cleaned and disinfected with a disinfectant approved by the Competent 
Authority of the exporting country.  
(8) During transport to the port of departure and during transit to New Zealand the lizards must be 
protected against insect attack.  
(9) For lizards and lizard hatching eggs transported by air, the cargo space of the aircraft where the lizards 
and lizard hatching eggs are to be t ransported must be  sprayed prior to departure with an insecticidal 
spray  approved by the Competent Authority of the exporting country . 
(10) Lizard hatching eggs must b e packed to prevent spillage and placed into new or clean and disinfected 
containers in the presence of a government veterinary officer before dispatch.   
(11) The containers in which the lizard hatching eggs are transported must be sealed by an Official 
Veteri narian using seals bearing the unique mark or identification number . 
(12) The importer must notify the date, expected time, port of arrival and the flight number or vessel name 
to the New Zealand Official Veterinarian at the airport/port of entry at least 7 day s in advance of 
importation.  
1.8 Import permit  
(1) An import permit under section 24D of the Act  is required prior to the importation of consignments of 
lizards and lizard hatching eggs from Australia and Europe .  
1.9 The documents  that must accompany goods  
(1) The consig nment must arrive in New Zealand with the following documen tation that i s specified in , and 
meets the requirements o f, clauses 1.9.1 to  1.9.3 below.  
(2) All documentation that  is required by this clause 1.9.1 to 1.9.3  to accompany the zoo lizard and lizard 
hatching eggs must, unless otherwise stated:  
a) Be original  
b) Accompany the imported goods.  
c) Be in English or have an English translation that is clear and legible.  
d) Be endorsed on every page by the Official Veterinarian with their orig inal stamp, signature and 
date or be endorsed in the space allocated and all pages have paper based alternative security 
features.  
 
Guidance  
 Copies of all documents that are required to accompany the goods should be submitted to the 
NZ Official Veterinarian at the airport/port of arrival as early as possible to avoid delays in 
border clearance.  The recommended timeframe is at least 7 working day in advance of arrival.   
 Please email the applicable arrival point:  
a) Auckland: mqsakav@mpi .govt.nz  
b) Wellington: wellingtoncertification@mpi.govt.nz  
c) Christchurch: liveanimalgroup@mpi.govt.nz  Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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1.9.1 Import permit   
(1) An import permit issued  by MPI (copy acceptable) as required  by clause 1.8 . The importer must apply 
to the Director -General for an import permit.  
 
Guidance  
 Application forms can be found on the MPI website at: Permit Application for Live Animals   
 Completed applications can be submitted to Animal Imports animal.imports@mpi. govt.nz  
 The importer should complete all information requested on the application form.  
 
1.9.2 Veterinary certificate   
(1) This clause 1.9.2 applies to all lizards and lizard hatching eggs except New Zealand native lizards that 
are not able to meet the requirements  in Part 2.  
(2) A veterinary certificate  from the exporting country’s Official Veterinarian. The veterinary certificate  
must include the following:  
a) A unique consignment identifier.  
b) Description, species , number of lizards or hatching eggs  and microchip transpo nder number(s)  
for lizards . 
c) Name and address of the importer (consignee) and exporter (consignor).  
d) Name, signature and contact details of the Official Veterinarian.  
e) Certification and endorsement by the Official Veterinarian that the requirements outlined i n Part 1 
of this IHS have been met.  
f) Certification and endorsement by the Official Veterinarian that the specified requirements 
outlined in Part 2 of this IHS have been met . 
(3) The veterinary certificate must be endorsed on every page by the Official Veterinar ian with their 
original stamp, signature and date or be endorsed in the space allocated and all pages have paper 
based alternative security features.  
 
Guidance  
 A model veterinary certificate is located in Part 3 of this document.  
1.9.3 Laboratory reports   
(1) This clause 1.9.3  applies to all lizards and lizard hatching eggs except New Zealand native lizards that 
are not able to meet the requirements in Part 2.  
(2) Original l aboratory reports ; copies of laboratory reports;  or a tabulated summary of laboratory results  
which must include :  
a) Unique  microchip transponder number/ear tag/identifier  identification for each lizard  or lizard 
hatching eggs  consistent with the veterinary certificate.   
b) Dates of sample collection.   
c) Test type.  
d) Test result.  
1.10 Transiting lizards and lizard hatching eggs  
(1) Lizards and lizard hatching eggs transiting through New Zealand must have, or be accompanied by:  
a) An MPI transit permit.   
b) A contingency plan that has been pre -approved by MPI.  Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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c) All the appropriate documents  required by the final destination cou ntry. 
d) Appropriate CITES documents issued by the exporting country for species that require such 
documents . 
(2) Lizards and lizard hatching eggs transiting through New Zealand must meet the requirements of Part 1 
and Part 2 of this IHS.  
 
Guidance  
 For information on transiting please contact Animal Imports animal.imports@mpi.govt.nz  
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Part 2:  Specified Requirements for Identified Risk Organisms  
(1) The following specified requirements must be met for identified risk organisms of lizards and lizard 
hatching eggs.  
(2) Where testing has been carried out prior to import, t he registered veterinarian of the exporting country 
must issue a signed  and dated veterinary certificate containing declarations that the below  
require ments have been met regarding the diseases  listed below , where required . 
(3) The official veterinarian must stamp and sign the veterinary certificate based on the attestation 
provided by the registered veterinarian.  
(4) For New Zealand native lizards , where testin g has not been carried out prior to shipment the be low 
requirements must be met in PAQ . 
2.1 Endoparasites  
2.1.1 Requirements for lizards  
(1) Within 48 hours after arrival at the PEI or PAQ, each  lizard  must be  subjected to an anthelmintic 
treatment regime recognised amongst herpetologists and veterinarians experienced in herpetological 
medicine as being effective for the removal of gastro -intestinal nematodes . 
2.2 Ectoparasites  
2.2.1 Requirements for lizards  
(1) Each lizar d must be  subjected to a treatment regime recognised amongst herpetologists and 
veterinarians experienced in herpetological medicine as effective for the removal of ectoparasites (ticks 
and mites) from lizards.  
(2) The effective ness of ectoparasite removal must be confirmed by:  
a) For lizards other than varanids:  
Two inspections (including the examination of skin folds and the cloaca of each lizard ), at least 
14 days apart. The first inspection must be done at least 14 days after completion of the 
ectoparasite treatment regime, with negative results for ticks and mites.  
b) For varanids:  
Two inspections, at least 14 days  apart. The first inspection must be  done at least 14 days after 
completion of the ectoparasite treatment regime, with negative results for ticks.  
2.3 Bloo d-borne protozoa  
2.3.1 Requirements for lizards  
(1) Each  lizard must  test negative twice for Plasmodium spp. and other Haemosporidia using air -dried, 
alcohol fixed, G iemsa stained smears of peripheral blood with at least 10 000 erythrocytes examined 
per lizard , with negative results:  
a) The first test must be  done at least 30 days after the start of PEI or PAQ and after the hibernation 
period (if applicable).  
b) The second test must be  done at least 14 days after the first test.  Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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2.4 Entamoeba invadens  
2.4.1 Requirements for lizards  
(1) Each  lizard  resided in one or more zoo s that ha ve no known history of Entamoeba invadens  infection. 
The health of all reptiles  at the zoo /s was monitored so that inc idents of disease and death were  
identified promptly and Entamoeba invadens  was excluded as the cause of gastrointestinal disease in 
lizards, snakes, or testudines  (turtles) during the preceding 12 months; or  
(2) Any reptiles in contact with the animals intended for export within the preceding 12 months, have 
tested negative to Entamoeba invadens by examination of faecal samples or cloacal washings for 
Entamoeba invadens  cysts; and  
(3) During PEI or PAQ e ach lizard must be  subjected to two faecal samples or cloacal washings for cysts 
of Entamoeba invadens  at least 14 days apart with negative r esults . Results must be reported to MPI, 
and r epeat  examination of faecal samples or cloacal washings may be required by MPI.  
 
Guidance 2.4 – 2.7 
 Reptile species in contact with the lizards intended for export include turtles and lizards that are 
cared for  by the same staff, have utensils cleaned in shared facilities or are in enclosures with 
contact through drainage.  
2.5 Atadenovirus  
2.5.1 Requirements for  lizard hatching eggs   
(1) During the  12 month s prior to export , at any zoo in which the lizards from which the hatching eggs are 
derived resided, atadenoviruses were excluded as the cause of illness or death affect ing any reptiles , 
on the basis of either specific laboratory diagnostic procedures, clinical or pathological  grounds  or the 
diagnosis of an alternative cause of illness or death . 
2.5.2 Requirements for lizards  
(1) During the 12 month s prior to export , atadenoviruses were excluded as the cause of illness or death 
affecting any reptiles at any zoos in which the lizards res ided, on the basis of either specific laboratory 
diagnostic procedures, clinical or pathological grounds or the diagnosis of an alternative cause of 
illness or death ; or  
(2) Each  lizard must be  subjected to an additional 6 months PEI or PAQ period  and kept in  a separate 
room, with separate air duct system, and separate husbandry tools and housed individually. During this 
time, u sing a  test as recommended by MPI document MPI -STD-TVTL for atadenovirus , each  lizard 
must be tested twice  for atadenovirus es with negative results ; the first time immediately prior to entry; 
and the second during the  additional  6 months  PEI or PAQ ; or 
(3) The lizard s must be kept isolated from New Zealand native reptiles or zoo reptiles  not of equivalent 
health status and remain  separated indefinitely . (This option is only available to NZ native lizards ). 
2.6 Iridoviruses  
2.6.1 Requirements for lizards  
(1) Each lizard  originate s from a country approved by MPI as free from ranaviruses in reptiles;  or 
(2) During the 12 month s prior to export , ranavir uses were excluded as the cause of illness or death 
affecting any reptiles  at any zoo in which the lizards  resided  on the basis of either specific laboratory Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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diagnostic procedures, clinical or pathological grounds or diagnosis of an alternative cause of illness or 
death ; or 
(3) Using a  diagnostic test as recommended by MPI document MPI -STD-TVTL for iridovirus , each lizard 
must be tested three times  for ranavirus es with negative results : 
a) The first test must be done 1 month p rior to the start of PEI or PAQ.  
b) The second  and third test must be done during PEI or PAQ  or;  
(4) The lizards  must be kept isolated from New Zealand native reptiles or zoo reptiles not of equivalent 
health status and remain separated indefinitely.  (This option is only available to NZ native liz ards).  
2.7 Edwardsiella tarda   
2.7.1 Requirements for  lizards  
(1) Each lizard originate s from a country approved by MPI as free from Edwardsiella tarda  in reptiles;  or 
(2) Each lizard was subjected to  two faecal samples or cloacal washings cultured for Edwardsiella tarda  at 
least 14 days  apart with negative results; or  
(3) Cloacal samples of the lizar ds were  tested for Edwardsiella tarda  using a diagnostic test as 
recommended by the MPI document MPI -STD-TVTL  with negative results ; or 
(4) The lizards must be kept isolated from New  Zealand native reptiles or zoo  reptiles not of equivalent 
health status and remain separated indefinitely.  (This option is only available to NZ native lizards).  
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Part 3:  Model veterinary certificate  
Guidance: model veterinary certificate  
 
(1) Below are  the m odel veterinary certificate s for lizards  and lizard hatching eggs from Australia and Europe.  
(2) The models meet the requirements of the IHS.  
 
Part 1: Details of dispatched consignment  1.1.   Consignor (Exporter):  
Name:  
Address:  
 1.2.  Certificate reference number:  
 
1.3.  Import permit number:  
1.4.  Competent Authority:  
 
1.5.  Consignee (Importer):  
Name:  
 
Address:  
 
1.6.  Country of o rigin:  
  Australia          Europe          1.7.  Port of embarkation:  
 
1.8.  Country of destination:    
New Zealand  1.9.  Port of arrival:  
1.10.  Place of origin:  
Name:  
Address:  
 1.11.  CITES permit No(s)**:  1.12.  Date of departure:  
1.13.  Means of transport:  
 
  Aeroplane            Ship            
 
         
Identification:  
 1.14.  Description of commodity:  
    Lizards  
   Lizard hatching eggs  
   New Zealand returned lizards  
1.15.  Identification of container/serial number:  1.16.  Total number:  
 
1.17.  Identification of commodity:  
 Species (Scientific Name)  Microchip No.  Site of Microchip  Sex Other ID  Date of Birth  
      
      
      
      
      
 
 
 
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Zoo lizards   Part 2:  Veterinary  Information  Country:   Certificate reference number:  
I, ………………………………………………………………an Official Veterinarian authorised by the Competent Authority of 
……………........ ......[country]  certify after due enquiry, with respect to the   lizards identified in this veterinary  certificate, that:  
 
(1) Exporting zoo premises  
 
(a) Each  lizard to be exported ha s been r esident in one or more government approved zoo s in the exporting 
country for at least twelve months prior to exportation , where the  health of all reptiles was  monitored so that 
incidents of disease and death were identi fied promptly .  
 
(2) Transport to New Zealand  
 
(a) As far as can be determined:  
 
(i) If shi pped by air, the transport facilities and arrangements meet the relevant requirements published 
in the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animal Regulations .  
If shipped by sea, the transport facilities and arrangements were inspected and meet the 
requirements of the Australian Marine Orders Part 43, Issue 6 (which is equivalent to the New 
Zealand Marine Rules Part 24C).  
(ii) No oth er animals other than those qualifie d for entry into New Zealand are transported with the 
lizards or lizard hatching eggs on the aircraft or ship . 
(iii) During transport to the port of departure and during transit to New Zealand, all bedding and feed 
provided  is clean and free from evidence of contamination with ticks and weeds/weed seeds.  
(iv) Only sterile peat, sof t board, treated wood shavings and shredded paper is used as bedding during 
transportation.  
(v) During transport to the port of departure and during transit  to New Zealand the lizards  were kept 
isolated from animals that are  not of equivalent health status.  
(vi) The crates or pens to be used for transporting the lizards to New Zealand are eithe r new or if 
previously used have been  cleaned and disinfected with a disinfectant approved by the Competen t 
Authority of the exporting country.  
(vii) During transport to the port of departure and during transit to New Zealand  precautions have been 
put into place so that  the lizards  are protected against insect attack.  
(viii) For lizards transported by air, the cargo space  of the aircraft where the lizards are to be t ransported 
was sprayed prior to departure with an insecticidal spray  approved  by the Competent Authority of the 
exporting country . 
 
(3) Pre-export isolation (PEI)  
 
(a) For at least 90 days prior to the scheduled date of export to New Zealand the  lizards were kept in a PEI 
facility approved and supervised by an Official Veterinarian.  
(b) During PEI the lizards were kept isolated from other animals not of an equivalent health status.  
(c) Only approved personnel entered the premi ses and the approved personnel wore protective  outer  clothing 
and footwear that are used exclusively in the premises . 
(d) All equipment used in the premises was new, or cleaned and disinfected prior to the entry of the lizards , and 
was used only in the premise s for the duration of the PEI.  
(e) During the PEI period all bedding and feed was clean and free from evidence of contamination with ticks and 
weeds/weed seeds.  Insects specifically used for feeding purposes may be taken into the PEI premises . 
(f) The PEI premises  were cleaned at least twice a week, and during cleaning all bedding and habitation 
material was replaced.  
(g) Individual health records were kept for all lizards  in PEI  and any health problems during PEI were reported to 
MPI before export.  
(h) During the PEI peri od, the lizards and all animals  in contact with the lizards  were fre e from clinical signs of 
infectious or contagious disease .  
(i) During the PEI period, the PEI facility was maintained free from mosquitoes, biting flies and sand flies .  
 
 
 
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I have no reason  to doubt the attestation provided by……………………… ………………………., the …………….[country]  
registered veterinarian overseeing the care of the animal in pre -export isolation (PEI), whose signature a ppears below, in  
regards to treatments and inspection with respect to th e lizards in this consignment.  
 
 
I,…………………… ………………………………………., the  registered veterinarian overseeing  the care of the animal in PEI,  
certify after due enquiry, with respect to the lizards identified in this veterinary certificate that:  
 
(4) Tests and Treatments  
 
(a) Endoparasites : 
 
(i) Within 48 hours of entering PEI, each lizard was subjected to an anthelmintic treatment regime 
recognised amongst herpetologists and veterinarians experienced in herpetological medicine as 
effective for the removal of gastro -intestinal ne matodes from lizards:  
 
Name of anthelmintic(s): .................................................................................................... .............  
Active ingredients:  ..........................................................................................................................   
Dose rate(s):  ..................................................................................................................... ..............  
Date(s) of treatment:  ......................................................................................................................    
 
(ii) During the PEI period , the PEI premises w as cleaned at least twice a week, and during cleaning al l 
bedding and habitation material was replaced.  
 
(b) Ectoparasites  (ticks and mites) : 
  
(i) During PEI each lizard was  subjected to a treatment regime recognised amongst herpetologists and 
veterinarians experienced in herpetological medicine as effective for the r emoval of ectoparasites 
from lizards.  
Name of anthelmintic(s): .................................................................................................... ........  
Active ingredients:  ............................................................... .......................................................   
Dose rate(s): ............................................................................................................................. .. 
Date(s) of treatment:  ................................... ...............................................................................   
 
(ii) During treatment, the PEI premises w as cleaned thoroughly at least twice a week, and during 
cleaning all bedding material and other potential  parasite habitats were removed . 
 
(iii) Effectiveness of ectoparasite removal was confirmed by:  
1. For lizards other than varanids:  
Each lizards was  inspected twice (including an examination of the skin folds and cloaca).The 
first of the two inspections was done at least 14 days after the completi on of the treatment 
regime and the second inspection was done at least 14 days later. No ticks or mites were 
found.  
2. For varanids:  
Each lizards was  inspected twice. The first of the two inspection s was done at least 14 days  
after completion of the treatment regime  and the second inspection was done at least 14 
days later. No  ticks were foun d. 
 
(iv) Treatment and inspection were repeated until the effectiveness of ectoparasite removal was 
confirmed by two successive inspections, t he first at least 14 days after completion of the last period 
of treatment and the second at least 14 days after that, with negative results.  
 
(c) Blood -borne protozoa : 
 
(i) At least 30 days after the start of the PEI period and after a hibernation period (if appl icable), each  
lizard  was tested for Plasmodium  spp. and other Haemosporidia on two separate occasions, at least 
14 days apart, using air -dried, alcohol -fixed, G iemsa stained smears of peripheral blood from each 
lizard  to be exported with at least 10,000 er ythrocytes examined per lizard , with negative results.  
 
Test used : ......................................................................................................................    
Date (s) of sample collection : ..................................................................................................................  
 
(d) Entamoeba invadens  (delete as appropriate):  
(i) Each l izard  has resided in zoo/s  that have no known history of E. invadens  infection. The health of all 
reptiles at the zoo /s has been monitored so that incidents of disease and death were identified Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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promptly and E. invadens  was excluded as the cause of gastrointestinal disease in lizards, snakes, or 
testudines  during the preced ing 12 months;  
or 
(ii) Any reptiles in contact with the animals intended for export within the preceding 12 months, have 
tested negative to E. invadens by examination of faecal samples or cloacal washings for E. invadens 
cysts; and  
(iii) It was confirmed that each  lizard is free from E. invadens  by the repeat examination of faecal 
samples or cloacal washings for cysts of E. invadens  on two separate occasions during PEI with 
negative results at least 14 days apart.  
 
Date (s) of sample collection : ...................... ................................................................ ...........................  
 
(e) Atadenovirus (delete as appropriate) : 
(i) During the 12 months  prior to export  atadenoviruses were excluded  as the cause of illness or death 
affecting reptiles in  any zoo in which the lizards resided , on the basis of either specific laboratory 
diagnostic procedures, clinical or pathological grounds or on the basis of the diagnosis of an 
alternative cause of illness or death ; 
or 
(ii) Each lizard  was subjected to an additional  6 months PEI. The lizards were kept in a separate room, 
with separate air duct system, and separate husbandry tools and housed individually. During this 
time, using a diagnostic test as recommended by MPI document MPI -STD-TVTL for adenovirus , the 
lizards were tested twice; first immediately prior to entry; and the second during th e additional  6 
months  PEI. 
 
Test used:………………………………………………………………………………………………………..  
Date (s) of sample collection : ...................................................................................... ...........................  
 
(f) Iridoviruses (delete as appropriate) : 
 
(i) Each lizard  originate s from a country  approved by MPI as  free from ranavirus in reptiles; or  
(ii) During t he 12 month s prior to export ranaviruses were excluded  as the cause of illness or death  in 
reptiles from any zoo in which the lizards resided  on the basis of either specific laboratory diagnostic 
procedures, clinical or pathological grounds or on the basis of the diagnosis of an alternative cause of 
illness or death ;  
or 
(iii) Using a diagnostic test as recommended by MPI document MPI -STD-TVTL for iri dovirus , each  lizard 
was tested three times for ranavirus with negative results , 
 
1. The first test was done 1 month prior to  the start of  PEI; 
2. The second and third test were done during PEI . 
 
Test used : ...................................................................................................................... ....................    
Date (s) of sample collection : .................................................................................... .........................   
 
(g) Edwardsiella tarda  (delete as appropriate):  
 
(i) Each lizard  originate s from a country approved by MPI as free from Edwardsiella tarda  in reptiles; or  
(ii) During PEI, each lizard was subjected to two faecal samples or cloacal washings that were cultured 
for Edwardsiella tarda at least 14 days apart with negative results . 
Date(s) of sample collection:……………………………………………………………………………….   
or 
(iii) During PEI, c loacal samples were  collected and subjected to a polymerase chain reaction ( PCR ) 
assay;  
Test used : ......................................................................................................................  ……………….  
Date (s) of sample collection : ...................................................................................... ...........................  
 
(h) All laboratory tests were conducted at a laboratory approved by the Competent A uthority and all results 
accompany this certification.  
 
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 Official Veterinarian  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:  
Signature:   
Date:  Registered Veterinarian in charge of the lizards in pre -export 
isolation :  
Name:  
Veterinary Registration Number:  
State/ Territory  
Address:  
Signature:  
Date:  
 
 
Zoo lizard hatching eggs          Part 2:  Veterinary  Information  Country:  Certificate reference number:  
I,.............................................................................. , an Official Veterinarian authorised by the Competent Authority of 
…………. [country] , certify after due enquiry, with respect to the lizard hatching eggs identified in this veterinary  certificate, 
that: 
(1) Hatching eggs  
(a) Only clean  lizard  hatching eggs have been selected and the lizard hatching eggs were visibly free of 
contamination at the time of export .  
(2) Exporting zoo p remises  
(a) All  lizards from which the zoo hatching eggs were derived have been resident in one or more government 
approved zoo  premises in the exporting country for at least twelve months prior to importation  
(b) The exporting zoo  premises were under veterinary supervision and the health of the lizard hatching eggs was 
monitored so that incidents of disease and death were identified promptly.  
(c) During the 12 months prior to export, at any zoo in which the lizards from w hich the hatching eggs are 
derived resided, adenoviruses were excluded as the cause of illness or death affecting any reptiles, on the 
basis of either specific laboratory diagnostic procedures, clinical or pathological grounds or the diagnosis of 
an altern ative cause of illness.   
(3) Transport to New Zealand  
(a) As far as can be determined:  
 
(i) If shi pped by air, the transport facilities and arrangements meet the relevant requirements published 
in the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animal Regulati ons.  
If shipped by sea, the transport facilities and arrangements were inspected and meet the 
requirements of the Australian Marine Orders Part 43, Issue 6 (which is equivalent to the New 
Zealand Marine Rules Part 24C).  
(ii) No oth er animals other than those qualified for entry into New Zealand are transported with the lizard 
hatching eggs on the aircraft or ship.  
(iii) The vehic les in which the hatching eggs were  transported from the pre -export isolation premises to 
the port of departure were cleaned and disinfecte d prior to loading using a disinfectant approved by 
the Competent Authority of the exporting country.  
(iv) During transport to the port of departure and during transit  to New Zealand the lizard hatching eggs 
are kept isolated from animals that are  not of equiva lent health status.  
(v) Crates or pens used for transporting the lizards or lizard hatching eggs  to New Zealand were eithe r 
new or if previously used cleaned and disinfected with a disinfectant approved by the Competent 
Authority of the exporting country.  
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and  date Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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(vi) The lizard hatching eggs were packed so as to prevent spillage and placed into new or clean and 
disinfected containers in the presence of a government veterinary officer before dispatch.  
(vii) The containers  were sealed by an Official Veterinarian using seals bear ing the unique mark or 
identification number:  .................................................................................................................  
 
 
 Official Veterinarian  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:  
Signature:   
Date:   
 
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and date Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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Schedule  1 – Document History  
Date First Issued  Title Shortcode  
TBA Import Health Standard: Zoo Lizards and Zoo 
Lizard Hatching Eggs  ZOOLIZAD.SPE  
Date of Issued A mendments  Title Shortcode  
   
   
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Schedule 2 – Definitions  
Competent Authority  
The Veterinary or other Governmental Authority of an OIE Member, that has the responsibility and 
competence for ensuring or supervising the implementation of animal health and welfare measures, 
international veterinary ce rtification and other standards and recommendations in the Code  in the whole 
territory.  
Director -General  
The chief executive of the Ministry for Primary Industries.  
Ectoparasite  
Organisms which live on the surface of the host, including mites, lice, ticks, fleas, and flesh -eating larvae.  
Endoparasite  
Organisms which live inside the host, including roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and flukes.  
MPI 
Ministry for Primary Industries, N ew Zealand.  
Official Veterinarian  
A veterinarian authorised by the Competent Authority of the country to perform certain designated official 
tasks associated with animal health and/or public health and inspections  of commodities and, when 
appropriate, to c ertify in conformity with the provisions of the OIE Code  Chapter for certification procedures.  
OIE 
The World Organisation for Animal Health.  
PCR  
Polymerase chain reaction . 
Registered Veterinarian  
A veterinarian suitably qualified and registered to practise  veterinary medicine  in the exporting country . 
The Code  
The OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code as found on the OIE website.  
The Manual   
The OIE Manual of Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines for Terrestrial Animals.  
Veterinary certificate  
A certificate, issued in conformity with the provisions of the Code  Chapter for certification procedures, 
describing the animal health and/or public health requirements which are fulfilled by the exported 
commodities.  
Zoo 
A containment facility approved to  the containment standard where live zoo animals are kept for the purposes 
of public exhibition, conservation, research or education.  Import Health Standard : Zoo Lizards and Zoo Lizard Hat ching Eggs   
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Explanatory n ote: A zoo includes for example, a circus, butterfly house, aquarium or an oceanarium. A zoo 
may also hold i ndigenous animals that are not new organisms but these anima ls are not covered by this IHS.  
Zoo animal  
A new organism approved under the Hazardous Substances and New Organism Act 1996 (HSNO)  to be held 
in a zoo. The organism is both a new organism under th e HSNO Act and a restricted organism under the Act.