Tortoise, iguana stolen from reptile park, police investigating

March 25, 2024
A 17-year-old male leopard tortoise was stolen from an Auckland animal park.

Police are appealing to the public for information after a tortoise and an iguana were stolen from Ti Point Reptile Park in Matakana, an hour north of Auckland.

Sergeant Dan McDermott said the leopard tortoise is a 17-year-old male and the iguana is an 8-year-old female.

"The incident is believed to have occurred sometime between Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 March 2024.

An 8-year-old female green iguana was stolen from an Auckland animal park.

"Our teams have attended the address and our investigation remains ongoing to locate those believed to be involved."

He said police are now appealing to the public for their help as concerns grow for the welfare of the animals taken.

"We are concerned that these animals aren't getting the appropriate care and there may be attempts to sell them on the black market.

"The best thing anyone involved can do is return the animals immediately to the Reptile Park."

Ti Point Repitle Park manager Mike Chillingworth said they are worried for the animals' welfare and would like to see them returned safely.

"Both animals require specific care and are not suitable as pets.

"The tortoise has been at the park since he was around two, and the iguana was hatched here.

"We would appreciate any information or assistance which would lead to their return."

Anyone with footage or information is urged to contact police.

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