Snake found in Christchurch traveller’s luggage after holiday in Bali

A Christchurch traveller returned from Bali with more than just souvenirs after a live snake was discovered wrapped around a jandal inside their suitcase.

Biosecurity New Zealand sent trained handlers to a Christchurch property today after a small snake was discovered in the suitcase of a traveller recently returned from Bali.

Wendy McDonald, the organisation’s manager of biosecurity surveillance and incursion, said a very small live snake was found wrapped around the toe of a jandal.

Preliminary identification by a specialist suggested it was a wolf snake, which is a type of non-venomous boa.

The snake would be humanely euthanised, McDonald said.

“Each year, we detect one or two snakes at post-border locations, with more typically intercepted at the border.

A very small live snake was found wrapped around the toe of a jandal. Photo / MPI

“These are usually non-venomous and often arrive dead due to cargo treatment.”

She said Biosecurity NZ responded to any alert as quickly as possible, including dispatching trained handlers to detection sites.

“Our handlers undergo intensive training, including specialist instruction in Australia, where they work with live snakes under expert supervision.”

The training is refreshed every two years.

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