SPCA opposes the import or export of wild animals for reasons such as use in research, testing, and teaching, keeping in captive environments such as zoological facilities, aquaria, or for private breeding where there is no conservation benefit, or as companion animals.

There are legal restrictions on the importation of wild animals to New Zealand. SPCA is concerned about illegal trade and importation of wild animals.

The capture, handling, transportation, acclimatisation, and long-term confinement of wild animals negatively impacts their welfare.

The risk of introducing and transmitting diseases that are harmful to human beings and other animals is increased when wild animals are transported, and the removal of animals is likely to cause potentially damaging effects on the ecosystem from where they are taken.

SPCA opposes the trade in products derived from wild-caught animals that are sold, bought, or used for souvenirs, clothing, decorative objects, food, and medicinal purposes.