Gecko theft arrest in Northland

A man has been arrested over the theft of more than 20 geckos taken from two separate locations in Northland over the past 10 days.

At least 15 geckos have been recovered by police and Department of Conservation staff.

The arrest related to burglaries at Whangarei Museum on June 28-29 when seven forest geckos were stolen, and at Ti Point Reptile Park, Warkworth, on June 27 when 16 green geckos were taken, Acting Sergeant Christian Stainton, of Whangarei, said.

A search warrant was executed at a rural property west of Whangarei today, during which at least 15 geckos were recovered.

"The investigation in this case utilised a co-ordinated approach involving numerous government agencies, including NZ Police, NZ Customs, NZ Wildlife and the Department of Conservation," Mr Stainton said.

"The recovered geckos are currently in the safe custody of DOC staff, receiving the necessary care and attention."

An unemployed 19-year-old Whangarei man is to appear in Whangarei District Court tomorrow facing two charges of burglary.

Mr Stainton said the agencies appreciated the public help they received during the investigation.

- NZPA