What does it look like?
Small amphibians measuring 5–11 cm in length, Alpine newts have a dark grey to dark brown back, with males typically grey and females brown, and a rough-textured surface. Their underside is bright orange, extending from the chin to the belly.
Blue, white, or silver spots or bands run along the sides of the body, and in more mature individuals, a distinct blue or cream band marked with black spots may be present. Mature males also develop a spotted crest or ridge along the back.
Why is it a problem?
Alpine newts feed on frog eggs and larvae, posing a threat to our rare native frogs, including the already endangered Hochstetter’s frog. They could also carry diseases that may affect other native amphibian species.
The newts tend to be found close to waterways and hibernate in small burrows in winter. In spring, they can be found in wetlands and ponds where they lay their eggs among pond plants. If you believe you have seen these newts, contact Biosecurity New Zealand’s pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Please take a photo and provide detail of the location. If possible, capture individuals and secure in a sealed container (with air holes).
Control methods
If you believe you have seen these newts, contact Biosecurity New Zealand’s pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Please take a photo and provide detail of the location. If possible, capture individuals and secure in a sealed container (with air holes).
More information
In 2013, a small number of European alpine newts were found in the eastern Waikato region. Following this detection, MPI lead an eradication programme, in conjunction with the Department of Conservation and the Waikato Regional Council. The programme was completed successfully in 2024.
Related links
Management Programme
Notifiable Organism
Some organisms must be notified to MPI if they're spotted in New Zealand. These include serious pests and diseases like foot-and-mouth disease, the rabies virus, fruit fly and disease-carrying mosquitoes. If a notifiable organism established in New Zealand, it could severely affect our primary production or trade and market access. If you spot a notifiable organism, you have a legal obligation under section 44 of the Biosecurity Act 1993 to tell MPI. Call the pests-and-diseases hotline on 0800 80 99 66.
The Biosecurity (Notifiable Organisms) Order 2016 lists notifiable organisms. New additions can be made by the Governor-General and MPI periodically reviews the list to ensure it is up-to-date.
Unwanted Organism
An unwanted organism is any organism that's capable of causing harm to natural or physical resources (like forests and waterways) or human health. A number of introduced pests in New Zealand are classed as unwanted.
Taxonomies
FamilySalamandridae
TypeAnimals
GroupReptile
HabitatLand
Management ProgrammeNotifiable OrganismUnwanted Organism
