Have you heard? A Great Spotted Kiwi has been discovered in the HealthPost Nature Trust wider project area. An incredible moment for our team - and volunteers for the HealthPost Nature Trust, who put in tireless hours rain or shine to ensure the Wharariki Ecosanctuary remains a predator-proof home for threatened wildlife.
A conservation milestone
It’s the first time since the 1970s (over 50 years!) that a Kiwi (Roroa) has been located at Onetahua, Farewell Spit – at the top of the South Island. Working with Pest Free Onetahua – deploying over 700 traps, this predator-free habitat works to keep threatened species safe and allows them to continue to thrive.
“It’s just awesome to find a vulnerable tāonga living in this wāhi tapu, it’s going to propel us forward on our shared pest free journey.” - Margie Little (Chairperson of Manawhenua ki Mōhua)
Like the Kiwi, other bird species - such as the
Pakahā (Fluttering Shearwater) remain a huge focus for the HealthPost Nature Trust – who work to create a safe environment where seabirds can once again breed safely on the cliffs, while other native species – like the Nelson Green Gecko and the Blue Penguins, flourish in the forests and wetlands.
“Trust volunteers, some of whom live close to the kiwi sighting, have put in a huge commitment of time and will be stoked to hear of this tāonga in the area”- Marian Milne (HealthPost Nature Trust Project Coordinator)
We’re excited about this conservation milestone, as it highlights the important mahi we do, giving back to nature and those in it. Here’s to restoring you, and nature too.
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