A rare pair of kārearea, New Zealand’s native bush falcon, has successfully raised two fledglings in Te Ngāherehere o Kohukohunui / Hūnua Ranges this summer - an exciting boost for the region’s native wildlife alongside the growing kōkako population.
The discovery comes from a 40‑day Auckland Council survey covering 293 sites and more than 300 hours of observation. It provides the first formal baseline of kārearea activity in the park and confirms breeding success following intensive predator control.
Kārearea specialist Chifuyu Horikoshi, who led the fieldwork, says the find is encouraging.
“Seeing a pair raise two fledglings shows this habitat is supporting their full breeding cycle.”
Male kārearea perched on branch. Photo credit: Chifuyu Horikoshi.
Auckland Council’s Paul Duffy, Team Manager Specialist Advice, says the results show predator control is working.
“This gives us clear evidence kārearea are successfully breeding in the Hūnua Ranges and that pest management is helping this threatened species recover.”
Councillor Richard Hills says it's a win for Aucklanders.
“It shows the work we’re doing to restore our natural environment is making a real difference.”
He encourages younger Aucklanders to get out and explore the region’s free parks.
Local mana whenua have welcomed the news, noting the kārearea is a taonga species. Smaller and faster than the kāhu, the kārearea is New Zealand’s fastest bird and known for its bold, agile hunting.
Residents are encouraged to report sightings on iNaturalist or eBird.