Critters Of The Week - The Conservation Successes of Kei Te Kuku Te Kereru
Kei Te Kuku Te Kereru Charitable Trust is one of the incredible conservation efforts that #CritterOfTheWeek supports, and they’ve been busy making a tangible difference in New Zealand’s ecosystem. With the generous funds raised through the Critter of the Week campaign, the Trust has been able to significantly expand its freshwater spawning programme, successfully rearing native species like inanga (whitebait), koura (crayfish), kakahi (freshwater mussels), kokopu (native fish), and more.
Their work doesn’t stop there. Thanks to partnerships with local landowners, Kei Te Kuku Te Kereru has been able to release these species into newly restored habitats. These efforts are essential for preserving New Zealand’s unique biodiversity and supporting the restoration of waterways that have been impacted by human activity. Every new release marks a step forward in rebuilding ecosystems that were once damaged, allowing native wildlife to flourish in their natural environments once again.
The Trust's conservation work also extends to its aviary programme. Injured birds, including kereru (New Zealand pigeon) and other native species, are regularly brought in for rehabilitation. Through dedicated care and attention, these birds are nursed back to health and eventually released back into the wild. This programme has had a significant impact on the survival of vulnerable bird species, helping to bolster local populations.
Looking ahead, Kei Te Kuku Te Kereru is focused on expanding its aviary area to increase the number of birds they can rehabilitate. With a particular emphasis on matuku (Australasian bittern), a species that is critically endangered, this expansion will allow the Trust to continue providing much-needed care to birds that need it most.
Every purchase from Joyya’s Critter of the Week campaign directly supports conservation heroes like Kei Te Kuku Te Kereru. Together, we’re helping to create a brighter future for New Zealand’s native wildlife. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to protect the precious biodiversity of Aotearoa.
