Oligosoma smithi is small species of skink, growing to a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of 82 mm (3.2 in).

[5] It is always found near the shoreline and prefers open areas such as around driftwood at the high tide mark.

[2] Oligosoma smithi is diurnal (active during the day) and spends most of its time hunting or basking in the sun.

The species typically mates around October, with between four and six young born each year between January and February.

[5] As of 2012 the Department of Conservation (DOC) classified Oligosoma smithi as Not Threatened under the New Zealand Threat Classification System.