<\/p>\n
\nThis wolf snake was found in the suitcase of someone who had just returned from Bali.
\nPhoto: Supplied\/Biosecurity NZ\n<\/p>\n
A small live snake has been found at the home of a Christchurch traveller who had just returned home from Bali.<\/p>\n
Biosecurity New Zealand sent trained handlers to the property after a report that a snake had been found in a suitcase.<\/p>\n
Biosecurity surveillance and incursion manager Wendy McDonald said the snake was found wrapped around the toe of a jandal.<\/p>\n
“Each year, we detect one or two snakes at post-border locations, with more typically intercepted at the border,” she said.<\/p>\n
“These are usually non-venomous and often arrive dead due to cargo treatment.”<\/p>\n
Biosecurity NZ believed it was a wolf snake, which was a type of non-venomous boa.<\/p>\n
The snake will be euthanised.<\/p>\n
McDonald said Biosecurity NZ responded to alerts as quickly as possible, including dispatching trained handlers to detection sites.<\/p>\n
“Our handlers undergo intensive training, including specialist instruction in Australia where they work with live snakes under expert supervision. This training is refreshed every two years,” she said.<\/p>\n