Ensuring kōkako thrive in the Kaharoa Forest
Through ecosystem management and community leadership.
Our volunteer efforts focus on nurturing a kōkako stronghold through predator control, genetic management and habitat preservation efforts in the Kaharoa Forest, Bay of Plenty, Aotearoa New Zealand.
Welcome to the Kaharoa
Kōkako Trust.
About Kōkako
The rare North Island kōkako, with its striking blue wattles and haunting song, is a treasured yet endangered taonga of our forests. These unique birds play a crucial role in seed dispersal, contributing to the health of our native ecosystems. At Kaharoa, we're privileged to have a remnant population.
Our Story
Founded in 1997, Kaharoa Kōkako Trust emerged from a community's determination to save our kōkako population from local extinction. Over the last 25+ years, our efforts have expanded from managing 153 bait stations in 360 hectares of forest, to running a comprehensive ecosystem conservation operation across 950 hectares, with 1400 stations.
By protecting kōkako, we're preserving the entire forest ecosystem, benefiting a wide range of native species. Our journey is one of passion, perseverance, and the power of collective action.
What We're Doing
Our work focuses on creating a thriving environment for kōkako through:
Extensive predator control operations
Regular monitoring of both pests and native species
Habitat preservation and enhancement
Community education and engagement
These efforts have helped increase the kōkako population from 23 birds in 1997 to more than 120 in the last survey (2022).
Get Involved
Join our community of dedicated volunteers or support our work through a donation. Every contribution, whether time or resources, makes a real difference in protecting Kaharoa's kōkako population and surrounding ecosystem.
“Volunteering with the Trust is an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing survival of kōkako, and is also a chance to immerse yourself in a unique piece of New Zealand native forest”
— Michael Richards, Volunteer
Stay Connected
Join our email list to keep in the loop about upcoming workdays, trapping results and more.