Aotearoa’s declining native penguin species, kororā (aka little penguin), are set to benefit from a new monitoring programme thanks to a collaboration between Pest Free Piha, Auckland Zoo and NZ Penguin Initiative.
The programme, which will likely begin later this year, aims to create a safer, more habitable environment for the species. Alongside support from members of the Piha community, it will include actions like tracking penguin movements, identifying nesting sites and understanding in more detail the impact of threats like climate change, food availability, predators and both dogs and cats
“This is an exciting step forward for this important species,” says Pest Free Piha’s project lead, Dudley Bell.
“By using robust scientific monitoring techniques, we can gain valuable insights into the health and habits of our local kororā, and as a result, take more effective action to protect them.”
Dudley goes on to explain the importance of kororā to Piha’s marine ecosystem.
“As predators of small fish, squid and crustaceans, they help maintain balance in the ocean’s food chain. They also recycle nutrients through their waste which helps coastal plants and marine algae thrive.
“Everything’s connected, and if the cycle of life is interrupted then the entire ecosystem could be thrown out of balance.”
In 2023 with the help of Auckland Council and under the guidance of penguin expert, Professor John Cockrem, Dudley and his team of volunteers installed 19 nesting boxes in various spots at North Piha beach.
“Dogs are the biggest threat to kororā in our area, not just because they can kill the penguins, but because their scent alone can deter kororā from their natural routine so, while boxes are no guarantee, they at least provide a safe, dog-proof option for kororā to nest. And after one full season, we’re already seeing early signs of use.”
According to Dudley, nest boxes change the game for monitoring since they’re much easier to access than a burrow.
“The results of this monitoring programme won’t just provide vital information to help refine conservation strategies for kororā in Piha, but contribute to broader conservation efforts across Aotearoa.”
How you can help kororā
- Respect ‘No Dog’ zones and also keep them out of the sand dunes and rocky coastal areas.
- Keep cats indoors (particularly at night) or enclosed in the yard as they love to catch kororā.
- Set backyard traps to keep pesky predators in check.
- Give kororā space if you see them – on land or in the ocean.
- Clean up beaches as rubbish and pollution can be deadly for kororā.
- Support conservation programmes that protect kororā and their natural habitats.
- Call the DOC emergency hotline (0800 DOC HOT) if you find a sick, injured or deceased penguin.
Get involved
Visit pestfreepiha.nz to join the conservation efforts. Or connect with groups in the Waitakere Ranges at pfwra.org.nz/find-your-people.
Contribute to The Pest Free Waitakere Ranges Alliance’s Give a Little page to protect the special species living in the Waitakere Ranges: givealittle.co.nz/l/pfwra-2024
Learn more about kororā