Archey's frog
New Zealand's native frogs (pepeketua) belong to the genus Leiopelma, an ancient and primitive group of frogs. The frogs have changed very little in 70 million years. They are small, nocturnal, and are hard to see as they camouflage themselves well. Three of our remaining species live on land in shady, moist forested areas, and one is semi-aquatic, living on stream edges.
Did you know that New Zealand's native frogs don't croak regularly like most frogs? Find out more about pepeketua and how to identify them.
More than most creatures, frogs are sensitive to disease, pollution, chemical poisons and environmental changes. Frogs are also vulnerable to introduced predators.
Learn about DOC's native frog recovery group and conservation work to protect our native frogs.
The public can assist DOC greatly by reporting any sightings of native frogs, but please don't handle them (especially with dry hands) as you may damage their skin.
This video introduces the Maud Island frog, one of only four native frogs in New Zealand. These unusual frogs don't croak, have no webbing between their toes and there are no tadpoles.
Watch a video about the Auckland Zoo's native frog research centre, where a team of experts are trying to solve the mystery of our disappearing ancient frogs.
Get detailed information using either the common or scientific name of the species you are interested in.
Threatened species classifications
NZ frog website
Frogs - Te Ara Encyclopedia of NZ
Herpetofauna Database
Phone 0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468) 24 hour emergency number to report:
Sick or injured wildlife Whale or dolphin strandings
Contacts