Found during katipo survey on Kopututea section of the Oneroa Walkway extension. Shannon from 4Sight consulting suggested copper skink, but "A Photographic Guide to Reptiles & Amphibians of New Zealand" gives the copper having a black and white denticulate pattern on the lips, which this does not have. Maybe Whirinaki skink? Shannon was also able to show me how to handle skinks in a minimally stressful way. Even still, it decided it would rather take refuge up her sleeve!