Toitoi are becoming common in the sanctuary

The 2025 toitoi/common bully translocation is in motion! Alongside the co-management group Rōpū Tiaki, Zealandia completed the third year of collection on 13 April at Kōhangapiripiri in the Parangarahu Lakes. These fish will join the current Zealandia population in a few weeks after they have been quarantined.

In March, the conservation team carried out Zealandia’s annual stream survey to assess how native freshwater species are recovering. In the portion of the awa/stream that was surveyed between the wetland and Jim and Eve Lynch track, there were a total of 387 kōkopu, 34 toitoi, 8 tuna/eels, and 3 kōura/crayfish spotted. As we expected, toitoi are dispersing well and can be seen through the awa, into the wetlands and from the top dam.

Pick up our Aquatic Critter Adventure Trail brochure to see what freshwater species you can spot on your next visit!