How Does Scrimshaw fit with CITES?
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) is administered in New Zealand by the Department of Conservation. The aim of this international agreement is 'to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species'. Over 38,000 species are covered by CITES, with trade in these managed carefully through a system of permits and certificates. Under the CITES agreement, pre-convention items require a certificate so regardless of age, all elephant ivory must have CITES documentation to enable re-export or import.
I work with recycled pre-ban era ivory from old pianos, mammoth ivory sourced from the Arctic circle, and old whales' teeth sourced in New Zealand from antiques shops etc. Whaling fortunately ceased in New Zealand in 1964, but there are thousands of whales teeth, pianos and other items incorporating elephant ivory in legitimate private ownership in New Zealand. Mammoth Ivory is from an extinct species and therefore not endangered, however it would be advisable to consult with the Department of Conservation to avoid problems.
If you are contemplating moving items containing ivory to or from New Zealand, it is advisable to check ahead of time with the Department of Conservation to establish if they fall within the CITES requirements.
I work with recycled pre-ban era ivory from old pianos, mammoth ivory sourced from the Arctic circle, and old whales' teeth sourced in New Zealand from antiques shops etc. Whaling fortunately ceased in New Zealand in 1964, but there are thousands of whales teeth, pianos and other items incorporating elephant ivory in legitimate private ownership in New Zealand. Mammoth Ivory is from an extinct species and therefore not endangered, however it would be advisable to consult with the Department of Conservation to avoid problems.
If you are contemplating moving items containing ivory to or from New Zealand, it is advisable to check ahead of time with the Department of Conservation to establish if they fall within the CITES requirements.