What's On at Zealandia

Patterns and frequency of moult vary depending on species and age: some manu may have one or several moults throughout the year, and these may be partial or full body moults.

Written by Chris Gee (volunteer and boat skipper) and Ellen Irwin (Lead Ranger, Conservation)

In 2021, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne carried out a project to restore the mouri and water quality of the lower reservoir, Roto Kawau. As part of this project, the water level of the reservoir was lowered by six metres, creating an expanse of bare, fractured mud. An important aspect at the beginning of this whole project was implementing a wildlife hazard management plan to identify any specific hazards to Zealandia species presented by the lower reservoir operation, and to consider mitigation approaches where necessary. This article discusses how the kawau/shag species reacted to the lowering water level. 

Check out this interview by our very own CE, Dr Danielle Shanhan who gave some tips about how to get into bird watching.

Kūkūwai/wetlands are crucial ecosystems. They help with flooding, improve water quality, and provide a home for many plants and animals. Unfortunately, over 90% of them have been drained in Aotearoa, and the remaining ones are still under threat.

In 2021, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne embarked on an ambitious operation to remove around 22,000 exotic perch from Roto Kawau, the lower reservoir. We have outlined this project in an operational report. The purpose of this report is to share our learnings and support other communities with similar ambitions.

While the other side of the world hunkers down for winter, and carols about snowmen and freezing temperatures ring out in shops, having Christmas in summertime can feel a bit out of place. But there are many things that make Aotearoa feel festive!   

This summer, we're encouraging you to explore further into the sanctuary and take notice of things you may not normally see, hear or feel.

Whether you’ve visited 100 times or never, there’s always something new to notice if you slow down and take it all in.
 

We want to encourage you to explore further into the sanctuary and take notice of things you may not normally see or hear. 

We’ve put together three tracks for you to explore based on your needs. Check them out here!