The two main types of wallabies found in New Zealand are the Dama and Bennets wallabies.

Bennets or red neck
Macropus rufogriseus

Black tail
Macropus bicolour

Black striped
Macropus dorsalis

White throated
Macropus parma

Brush tail
Petriogale penicillata

Dama
Macropus eugenii

Wallabies weigh about 9 to 18kg, and are of lanky build with powerful hind legs and a long tail.  They move about with short hops and are reddish brown or grey in colour.

They are found in bush clearings, pasture margins and exotic forests, and generally stay hidden during the day.  Wallabies are grazers and browsers, feeding on young trees and grasses.

When seen at night with the aid of a spotlight they have greenish yellow eyes like a sheep.

The nearest Wallabies to Northland are on Kawau Island and around Rotorua.

Spot a wallaby? Let us know

Wallabies have not been reported in Northland.  They are serious pests in other parts of the country.

If you think you have seen a wallaby anywhere in Northland, contact the Northland Regional Council immediately on:

• 0800 002 004 (during business hours)
• 24/7 Environmental Hotline 0800 504 639 (after-hours)