"Gecko census" used to find rare lizards in Auckland

From Checkpoint, 4:25 pm on 16 April 2025

Ecologists have discovered a handful of rare lizards during a top secret gecko census at an undisclosed location south of Auckland. The Raukawa gecko is considered at risk on the mainland  due to predators. But they are vital little cogs in the environment helping with pollination and seed dispersal. Locating them is helpful for managing threats and restoring their environment. Auckland Council's Senior Ecologist Melinda Rixon spoke to Lisa Owen.