Lives of Skinks absolutely protected, while unborn children, God’s precious infants absolutely unprotected!

Media Release 2 May 2026

The Wildlife Act 1953 provides effective legal protection for the lives of lizards in New Zealand. It is an offence to harm or kill a Skink that is “absolutely protected.” On conviction a person who harms or kills a Skink is liable for a fine up to $100,000 or up to two years in prison. It is a crime to kill a Skink, however it is not a crime to kill an unborn child.

Right to Life asks the Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon why are Skinks absolutely protected in law when our own unborn children are absolutely deprived of legal protection and may be killed effectively up to birth?

Right to Life also asks the Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon why his government is prepared to spend $120,000 in addition to the $100,000 contributed by the Waimakariri District Council, to save the lives of precious lizards in Canterbury, while at the same time providing unlimited funding for the murder of our own unborn children, created by God in His own image and likeness, and whose lives are considered to be of little worth?

Right to Life commends the NZ Transport Agency for its respect for the lives of 380 rare Canterbury lizards, who were recently carefully and safely transported to their new home in the Northern Kaiapoi Lakes area. A five year monitoring plan is required to be implemented to ensure the health and welfare of the Skinks.

The lives of these Lizards are legally protected by the Wildlife Act 1953, which requires a rigorous protection plan for the Skinks at their new home. The NZ Transport Agency has spent $40,000 in relocating Skinks in multiple sites in Canterbury.

Right to Life is committed to campaigning for legislation that will provide absolute protection for the lives of our unborn children as currently enjoyed by Skinks.

Ken Orr,

Spokesperson,

Right to Life New Zealand Inc.