When glancing at a map, it seems that New Zealand and Australia are practically neighbors. It would be easy to assume they share similar features, such as weather, flora, fauna, and wildlife. If you visit New Zealand, you might hope to see a kangaroo. But are these marsupials even anywhere to be seen?
Kangaroos are, in fact, not native to New Zealand and will not be seen in the wild in any of the areas. They can, however, be seen at zoos across the country. Some wallabies live in the wild in New Zealand. Wallabies are often mistaken for kangaroos.
If you find yourself exploring this wondrous island’s natural beauties, you may think that your eyes have deceived you as you gaze upon what can only be a kangaroo. But is it, in fact, a kangaroo?
Are Kangaroos Native To New Zealand?
As mentioned, kangaroos are not native to New Zealand and do not exist in the wild on this island. Kangaroos are, in fact, only native to Australia and New Guinea. They may be seen in zoos and enclosures worldwide but are only native to the two countries mentioned above.
Where Might You See Kangaroos In New Zealand?
Since these springy creatures are not native to New Zealand, they may only be seen in zoos and enclosures and will not be spotted in the wild or their natural habitat, like in Australia. If you are visiting New Zealand and not stopping in Australia but would like to see a Kangaroo, visit one of the many zoos. Wellington Zoo is known to have kangaroo species in its enclosure.
Wallabies In New Zealand
Wallaby Photo by Scott Fletcher
One of the primary sources of confusion regarding kangaroos in New Zealand is that its relative, the wallaby, lives there in the wild. Although wallabies are not native to the country, they live in the wild.
In 1870 Sir George Grey had Wallabies imported from Australia (their native home) as a part of his exotic animal collection. The wallabies were later released into various parts of New Zealand for hunting.
As a result, there are now five different species of wallabies in New Zealand today. Wallabies are considered pests to the New Zealand ecosystem, occupying over a million hectares of land in certain areas.
It is easy to mistake a wallaby for a kangaroo at a glance. They are, after all, related and share many similar traits.
What Is The Difference Between Kangaroos And Wallabies?
Kangaroos and wallabies are classified as marsupials belonging to the macropod (“large foot”) family. Several key differences distinguish these two mammals from one another.
Differences Between Kangaroos And Wallabies
| Kangaroo | Wallaby | |
| Weight | Depending on the species and gender, kangaroos weigh, on average, between 77-198 lbs. | Significantly smaller in stature, wallabies have an average weight of 4-53 lbs. |
| Height | Heights vary between species but, on average, can measure between 3-8 ft. | Adults measure between 2.5 – 3 ft., excluding their tails. |
| Legs | More length between ankles and knees. Legs are built for strength | Legs are more compact in stature and are built for agility. |
| Color | Coats are demure tones of grey or brown. | Coats are brighter in color and consist of white, brown, grey, yellow, and orange variations. |
| Teeth | Curved teeth to adapt to the foraging in their habitat | Flat teeth to adapt to foraging in their habitat. |
| Speed | It can reach speeds between 31-44 miles per hour. | It can reach speeds between 16-20 miles per hour. |
Differences aside, these macropods share some similarities too. Both of these Australian native land mammals have strong hind legs, which enable them to jump. Jumping is the only way these animals are able to move around, and the infant species are called joeys.
Animals That Are Native To New Zealand
Pekapeka Photo by New Plymouth’s Brooklands Zoo
While New Zealand is a veritable cornucopia for sighting interesting and exotic species, there is, in fact, only one land animal that is native to the country, the long-tail bat or Pekapeka. These bats are endangered and could face extinction if not adequately protected.
New Zealand has the most seabirds than any other place in the world. The island also boasts large varieties of frogs, insects, and reptiles, some of which cannot be found elsewhere.
Other species native to New Zealand that are not classified as land mammals include:
- Kakapo
- Kiwi
- Pukeko
- Skinks
- Tuatara
It shouldn’t surprise you that New Zealand is home to an array of marine life, given its location and climate. While they may not be native to the country, many of them reside around the island and can be easily viewed and admired. The Rapoka sea lion can be found in New Zealand and is known to be one of the world’s rarest breeds of sea lions.
FAQs
Are Wallabies Dangerous?
The temperaments of wallabies may vary. Like many wild animals, wallabies are warier of human interaction or presence and may become aggressive if they feel threatened or infringed on. If you maintain your distance and do not attempt to interact with a wallaby, it is unlikely that it would initiate an unprovoked attack.
Can You Have A Pet Wallaby?
In New Zealand and many other places, having a wallaby as a pet is illegal. Funnily enough, the state of Colorado allows for keeping exotic animals as pets (including wallabies, kangaroos, and wallaroos), provided that the correct documentation, permits, and living conditions are in place.
What Is A Wallaroo?
Do not be fooled by the name. Although, in many ways, the wallaroo resembles something of a kangaroo/wallaby hybrid, it is, in fact, another native Australian species belonging to the macropod family.
The wallaroo is in between the kangaroo and wallaby when size is considered. They have a coarse, shaggy coat and a hairless snout. Their fur varies in color from blue-grey to almost black or red-brown color. Wallaroos prefer shaded rocky regions and reside in mountainous areas or caves.
Conclusion
You will not see any kangaroos when visiting New Zealand unless you make a concerted effort to visit an enclosure that houses them. But do not let this disappoint you. New Zealand has many other species of wildlife for you to enjoy. And if you desperately need a marsupial sighting, you’re sure to see a wallaby or two.