2010 media releases
Date: 14 December 2010
A company filming an advertisement for a 4WD vehicle has been criticised by the Otago Conservation Board (OCB) for damaging a fragile high country wetland.
Date: 16 December 2010
Further research is needed to determine the cause of the avian diphtheria, which has hit yellow-eyed penguin chicks on Otago Peninsula recently.
Date: 23 December 2010
Anyone who attempts to take seafood from Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve this summer is likely to get caught, the Department of Conservation warns.
Date: 23 December 2010
Penguins, petrels and other seabirds are dying in large numbers and washing up on our shores due to the La Nina climate pattern hitting the country this year.
Date: 23 December 2010
The Department of Conservation (DOC) reminds visitors exploring Gisborne Whakatane public conservation areas to be well prepared for the weather conditions and higher fire risk in summer.
Date: 22 December 2010
Christmas has come early for kākāpō this year as the Animal Health Board (AHB) has funded the purchase of a generator to be used during the breeding season on Anchor Island.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Chatham Islands Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Northland Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Auckland Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Waikato Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the East Coast/Bay of Plenty Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Taranaki/Whanganui Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Tongariro/Taupo Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Nelson/Marlborough Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the West Coast Tai Poutini Conservation Board.
Date: 22 December 2010
Music in Naseby, sculpture in Rotorua and taonga puoro on Stewart Island - New Zealand will be alive with new sights and sounds thanks to an exciting arts residency programme.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Otago Conservation Board.
Date: 23 December 2010
Minister of Conservation Hon Kate Wilkinson today announced the appointments to the Southland Conservation Board.
Date: 21 December 2010
Extreme fire danger has triggered DOC to place a total fire ban over conservation lands in Mackenzie and Ashburton high country today.
Date: 21 December 2010
Source: Department of Conservation and Friends of Mana Island
Mana Island's first 'home grown' fluttering shearwater chick bodes well for the success of a 13-year effort to return three seabird species to the island.
Date: 21 December 2010
A private partner is investing $930 000 in a Department of Conservation-led programme aimed to bring thousands of seabirds back to Hawke's Bay and restore key environmental sites across the province.
Date: 20 December 2010
Lots of people enjoy seeing the dolphins, but they are wild animals and really do need their time out from people especially during the holidays. Find out how boaties in the Bay can help dolphins with a few simple courtesies.
Date: 20 December 2010
A small spring-fed tributary of Fraser Stream near Twizel has had a large increase in two of New Zealand's rarest native fish species, attributed to the introduction of a trout barrier.
Date: 20 December 2010
Opportunity opens up from Tuesday next week (28 December) to drive through the spectacular high country landscape of Molesworth Station, New Zealand's largest farm.
Date: 20 December 2010
DOC needs the public's help to protect the special treasures of the Bay of Islands. Here are some tips to help all of us enjoy a cracker summer in the Bay.
Date: 20 December 2010
Three Year Nine Springbank School students have created three larger-than-life size animal and bird costumes to help Project Island Song.
Date: 20 December 2010
The Bay of Islands Refuse Barge for boaties visiting the Bay of Islands this summer is back on the water from 23 December 2010 to 8 February 2011 and will be moored off the eastern end of Moturua Island.
Date: 17 December 2010
DOC is encouraging holiday-makers to take advantage of a fantastic new addition to Hakatere Conservation Park.
Date: 17 December 2010
Rat numbers have plummeted following a 1080 operation as part of Project Kaka, an on-going pest control programme to restore the health of a wide range of wildlife and plant species and control bovine tuberculosis (TB) in the Tararua Forest Park.
Date: 14 December 2010
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is appealing for information about unauthorised toxin baits found in the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park near Katikati last week, which have led to the temporary closure of several walking tracks.
Date: 13 December 2010
Habitat destruction from land clearance and fire damage have seen the native tree daisy become nationally endangered. This species of coastal plant was traditionally found from the Coromandel Peninsula to the East Cape.
Date: 13 December 2010
If you are looking for the Christmas gift that keeps on giving, head along to a Paperplus store to buy a copy of Kākāpō, Rescued from the brink of extinction.
Date: 14 December 2010
For the second year in a row, Bay of Islands' Department of Conservation staff and Project Island Song volunteers will be giving out bags of goodies to local and visiting boaties to the Bay of Islands.
Date: 08 December 2010
Mountain bikers can begin riding Kahurangi National Park's Flora Saddle to Barron Flat and Kill Devil tracks now but are reminded they cannot begin riding the Heaphy Track until 1 May next year (2011.
Date: 06 December 2010
Scores of little blue penguins have been washing up on Whangarei's eastern beaches.
Date: 06 December 2010
The Department of Conservation is condemning the brutal clubbing to death of 23 seals, including eight newborn pups, on the Kaikoura coast.
Date: 06 December 2010
Source: Office of The Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson will accompany a research team to New Zealand's remote Subantarctic Islands today as part of the joint Navy and Department of Conservation expedition, Operation Endurance.
Date: 02 December 2010
A couple caught setting up camp on conservation land on Kapiti Island last evening could face prosecution following concerns regarding fire risk and threats to wildlife.
Date: 02 December 2010
The presence of a stoat on Kapiti Island has been confirmed, with the animal's DNA found on faecal matter (scat) and a dead parakeet/kakariki that was about three weeks old, found by mustelid detection dog Crete and his handler last week.
Date: 01 December 2010
A group of up to 10 motor bikers, believed to be from the Kaitaia area, are under investigation by DOC following reports that they sped along tracks, campgrounds and rest areas, including Cape Reinga, during a day of reckless mayhem.
Date: 30 November 2010
Minster of Conservation Kate Wilkinson and Associate Minister of Maori Affairs Georgina Te Heuheu welcomed the first graduation of 14 Maori cadets from an intensive conservation training programme.
Date: 30 November 2010
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is urging people heading outdoors over summer to familiarise themselves with the rural fire rules, to avoid putting lives at risk and damaging the natural environment … and their pocket.
Date: 29 November 2010
After a busy whitebait season in the Gisborne Whakatane Area the Department of Conservation reminds whitebaiters the season ends tomorrow 30th November.
Date: 25 November 2010
Over 700 years since people first set foot on Stewart Island, local history came alive on Thursday night to the sound of rollicking folk songs, as the launch of a new book honouring the island's heritage was celebrated.
Date: 26 November 2010
Increasing numbers of community groups and landowners throughout the eastern Bay of Islands (Ipipiri) are getting involved in stoat and rat trapping programmes on the mainland facing the islands of the eastern Bay.
Date: 25 November 2010
A broken leg has hampered the efforts of 'Crete' the specialist mustelid detection dog sent to Kapiti Island on Tuesday.
Date: 25 November 2010
Shireen and Francis Help's natural affection for kororā/white flippered penguins have earned them the Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board Award for 2010.
Date: 23 November 2010
North Island Maui's dolphins and South Island Hector's dolphins were once thought to occupy completely separate stretches of New Zealand's coastline, but new research has shown that two female Hector's dolphins have been visiting their North Island relatives.
Date: 22 November 2010
Source: Untouched World Charitable Trust and the Department of Conservation
The Untouched World Charitable Trust and the Department of Conservation will sign a new, three year agreement, acknowledging the trail-blazing work done on Blumine Island in the Marlborough Sounds since 2002.
Date: 22 November 2010
Whale tales will abound when former whalers and others gather this Saturday (27 November) to celebrate restoration of the historic Perano Whaling Station in Tory Channel.
Date: 22 November 2010
An extensive search of Kapiti Island has not yet uncovered any sign of a stoat spotted on Kapiti Island on 11 November.
Date: 21 November 2010
Around 10.46 tonnes of debris was collected by about 800 people in the Tasman Bay Big Beach Clean-up.
Date: 19 November 2010
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson will officially open the St James Cycle Trail on Saturday 20 November, the first of the country's 'Great Rides' to be fully completed.
Date: 19 November 2010
New evidence shows possums are eating New Zealand's native parrot the kea. Researchers using nest-cameras have for the first time witnessed the gruesome reality inside defenceless kea nests invaded by stoats and possums in South Westland.
Date: 17 November 2010
Source: Department of Conservation, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board
The 11 winners of Wellington's inaugural Encore Awards have been challenged to spread the word about their efforts to restore and protect the region's natural and historic features.
Date: 18 November 2010
The Department of Conservation (DOC) says ERMA's annual report on the aerial use of 1080 shows the public can have confidence in the strict controls surrounding the use of the biodegradable pest control poison.
Date: 16 November 2010
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is concerned about several attacks on wildlife in the Catlins last weekend, resulting in serious injuries to sea lions and yellow-eyed penguins.
Date: 16 November 2010
A volunteer trapping project - part of the Department of Conservation's Project Kaka programme to protect native birds in the Tararua Forest Park - is starting to prove its worth.
Date: 16 November 2010
Nelson MP and Environment Minister Nick Smith will be among around 1000 people collecting a huge haul of rubbish from Tasman Bay beaches this Saturday (20 November) as part of a Big Beach Clean-up.
Date: 15 November 2010
The Department of Conservation is inviting public submissions on a proposed concession to allow parts of a hydroelectric scheme in the Lake Matiri Conservation Area and on adjoining public conservation land, near Murchison.
Date: 12 November 2010
A 20 year old Southland man was sentenced in the Invercargill District Court today to four months jail for his role in an attack on a leopard seal. McKenzie was one of three men involved in the attack in Te Waewae Bay, Southland in October 2009.
Date: 12 November 2010
The difficult work of restoring the 100-year old Eastern Portal Bridge in Karangahake Gorge is now complete, and the historic railway structure has re-opened to walkers enjoying the magnificent Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway.
Date: 12 November 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson and Minister of Maori Affairs Dr Pita Sharples have welcomed the first graduation of 14 Maori cadets from an intensive conservation training programme that will help the Department of Conservation work closer with iwi.
Date: 12 November 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
New Zealand's largest off-grid solar power system on Motutapu Island is complete and will be activated today.
Date: 12 November 2010
DOC is consulting on a sustainable management proposal for the Ruakaka Wildlife Refuge that aims to balance the protection of native species and habitats with the impacts of recreational use and population growth.
Date: 08 November 2010
Source: Department of Conservation and Animal Health Board
A "triple-hit" aerial pest control operation has begun today in the Tararua Forest Park aimed at boosting native bird numbers and also preventing the spread of bovine tuberculosis (TB) in the Wairarapa.
Date: 01 November 2010
The Department of Conservation is keen to hear from fishermen and boaties about sightings of a Hector's dolphin in Gisborne East Coast waters.
Date: 01 November 2010
In preparation for the 2010/11 breeding season, seven male kākāpō were successfully transferred from Codfish Island/Whenua Hou to a remote predator-free island.
Date: 28 October 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
A new national policy statement will give councils clearer direction on protecting and managing New Zealand's coastal environment, including nationally significant surf breaks, says Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson.
Date: 27 October 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson says spotlighting on public land clearly breaches firearms laws and won't be tolerated following three separate incidents over Labour Weekend, including the death of Rosemary Ives.
Date: 27 October 2010
Local and overseas fishers visiting the Bay of Islands are already helping Project Island Song - the pest-free islands in the eastern Bay of Islands - by using a tailor-made Ministry of Fisheries fish measurement guideline sticker.
Date: 26 October 2010
Last weekend the final stage of an aerial 1080 pest control operation was completed in the Northwest Ruahine Forest Park.
Date: 21 October 2010
The rare rowi kiwi reclaimed valuable territory in north Ōkārito forest in the largest ever release of the species by the Department of Conservation today.
Date: 25 October 2010
Source: Department of Conservation, Pukaha Mount Bruce Board, BNZ Save the Kiwi Trust
Kiwi released at Pukaha Mount Bruce in May have produced their first offspring. In the last few days, the first three chicks of the year have hatched.
Date: 21 October 2010
A three-metre long steel and mesh endangered bird - New Zealand's flightless kākāpō - has become a star attraction at an international meeting on biodiversity in Japan.
Date: 20 October 2010
Wairoa played host to a tired, confused and stranded young albatross recently, when it was left high and dry in the local cemetery.
Date: 21 October 2010
A call for community groups to join in a spring clean of Tasman Bay beaches next month has had a fantastic response with around 1000 people expected to turn out for the coastal tidy-up.
Date: 19 October 2010
David Mules, DOC Bay of Islands' newly appointed Community Relations Programme Manager has a strong community relations background working for DOC in Dunedin. Formerly, David was a teacher and principal at Panguru and Broadwood Area Schools and knows the north well.
Date: 20 October 2010
Between 14 and 16 October, over 35 rural fire crews pit their skills against each other in a series of quirky and demanding exercises dotted around the South Canterbury beauty spot.
Date: 20 October 2010
Seals don't need our help unless they are severely injured, under threat from people or dogs, or entangled in marine debris, the Department of Conservation is reminding people.
Date: 18 October 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
The Government will spend $4 million to test out new self-resetting traps that have the potential to boost protection for New Zealand's forests and native species, Prime Minister John Key and Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson announced today.
Date: 15 October 2010
A tourist lodge which combines wildlife recovery programmes with art galleries has been awarded the Department of Conservation's annual Conservation in Action Tourism Award for 2010.
Date: 13 October 2010
The Department of Conservation has begun to survey important natural areas within a portion of the Rodney area known as the Rodney Ecological District.
Date: 12 October 2010
A third seabird species has been tricked in to believing Mana Island is "home", with two pairs of fluttering shearwater laying eggs in specially-designed burrows.
Date: 08 October 2010
When you combine action, romance and a unique New Zealand landscape with an inspiring story of survival, it is no wonder The Unnatural History of the Kākāpō is an award winning film and next week Southlanders will have the opportunity to see it on the big screen.
Date: 07 October 2010
Four-wheel drive enthusiasts will have the opportunity to take a weekend trip through the spectacular landscape of the Clarence Reserve area of Ka Whata Tu O Rakihouia Conservation Park near Kaikoura.
Date: 06 October 2010
Hundreds of Northland brown kiwi are under threat from a pair of dogs wandering around the Aponga area, north-west of Whangarei.
Date: 04 October 2010
Source: Department of Conservation and Animal Health Board
An aerial pest control operation targeted to protect native birds nesting in the Tararua Ranges from possums, rats and stoats began today.
Date: 05 October 2010
Source: New Zealand Food Safety Authority and the Department of Conservation
Whitebaiters continue to fish Canterbury rivers contaminated with sewage despite being warned by the New Zealand Food Safety Authority and the Police.
Date: 04 October 2010
There have been no further sightings of an entangled humpback whale, which was last seen in the Bay of Islands around 11 am on 29 September.
Date: 30 September 2010
Results of a perception survey have confirmed the widely held belief that viewing the natural scenery and landscape is the most valued opportunity among visitors to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi.
Date: 30 September 2010
An early morning search for an entangled humpback whale in the Bay of Islands has been postponed due to worsening weather conditions.
Date: 29 September 2010
Department of Conservation staff received reports of another entangled humpback whale, just hours before freeing one off the Doubtless Bay coast, in the Far North.
Date: 29 September 2010
At 3.30pm this afternoon DOC staff were able to cut free debris wrapped around the midriff and tail of a 12-metre humpback whale that they have been working with since 8.30 this morning.
Date: 29 September 2010
Attempts to free an entangled humpback whale that was spotted in Doubtless Bay, Northland, yesterday continue.
Date: 23 September 2010
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is asking the public to report sightings of the pest fish koi carp in the Whakatane/Opotiki district.
Date: 28 September 2010
The Rakiura Track on Stewart Island/Rakiura is set to join the rest of the country's Great Walks on the Department of Conservation (DOC) online visitor booking system from 4 October 2010.
Date: 28 September 2010
Department of Conservation staff have put additional traps in Nelson Lakes National Park's Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project area in their efforts to catch the killer of a great spotted kiwi.
Date: 28 September 2010
Department of Conservation staff are using a boat and a plane to try and locate a humpback whale apparently entangled in rope, spotted by a boatie off the coast of Doubtless Bay this morning.
Date: 27 September 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation and the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture
A new 400 hectare marine reserve is to be established in the Rodney district after a successful application by the Auckland Regional Council.
Date: 24 September 2010
It's taken three exhausting days but the battle to save the survivors of a pod of stranded pilot whales in the Far North has finally ended with fourteen whales swimming back out to sea.
Date: 24 September 2010
24 whales, part of a pod of pilot whales that stranded at Spirits Bay in the Far North on Wednesday morning, have been transported 50km south to Rarawa beach, in an attempt to refloat them.
Date: 24 September 2010
24 stranded pilot whales are close to beginning their journey by truck from Spirits Bay to Rarawa Beach in an attempt to give them a chance to be re-floated successfully later this afternoon.
Date: 24 September 2010
The 24 pilot whales stranded at Spirits Bay will be moved by truck and trailer units later today to Rarawa Beach.
Date: 23 September 2010
"All the help we can get" is the plea from DOC for tomorrow's planned whale re-float in the Far North.
Date: 23 September 2010
Rescue efforts are focused on the logistical challenges of saving the 24 whales still alive at Spirits Bay in the Far North.
Date: 23 September 2010
A small but committed group of Ashhurst locals recently celebrated the completion of their first year trapping stoats along the Manawatu Gorge Track.
Date: 23 September 2010
Follow DOC's rescue efforts to save a pod of pilot whales stranded yesterday at Spirits Bay, approximately 90km north of Kaitaia.
Date: 22 September 2010
Saturday October 9th promises to be a special day for anyone visiting the Karangahake Gorge, as the Victoria Battery gold mining site is transformed for 'Log Fest'.
Date: 22 September 2010
Department of Conservation staff in the Far North are today in the throes of coordinating efforts to save a pod of pilot whales stranded at Spirits Bay, approximately 90km north of Kaitaia.
Date: 20 September 2010
Due to the extreme weather conditions over the weekend many of the facilities in the Whanganui area may have experienced some damage.
Date: 20 September 2010
More than 100 poems and images were entered by Bay of Islands school children into DOC's Conservation Week 2010 competition. A booklet featuring their work will be available in cafes and libraries around the Bay.
Date: 17 September 2010
Installation of New Zealand's largest off-grid solar power system will begin next week on Motutapu Island.
Date: 17 September 2010
The 2010 Conservation Award winners for the Manawatū Rangitīkei area are two women who have contributed significantly to conservation over the years.
Date: 15 September 2010
Developing innovative pest control methods, researching and monitoring native species and introduced pests are just a few of the projects being undertaken by the recipients of this year's Southland Conservation Awards.
Date: 13 September 2010
Conservation Week "kicked off" on Sunday 12 September with events held by the Whinray Ecological Trust (WECT) and the Women's Native Tree Project Trust (WNTPT).
Date: 13 September 2010
A new survey indicates that South Islanders are twice as likely to visit a national park as their North Island counterparts.
Date: 12 September 2010
Just in time for Conservation Week (12 - 19 September), the world's rarest kiwi hatches undamaged in the midst of Christchurch's earthquakes.
Date: 13 September 2010
Children visiting Nelson Lakes National Park are being offered the chance to become honorary rangers through a new fun conservation learning programme.
Date: 11 September 2010
At a jury trial at the Auckland District Court, a Kawau Island resident was found guilty of being the owner of a dog that killed 14 endangered weka at the Kawau Island Historic Reserve.
Date: 10 September 2010
DOC has been busy inspecting all facilities and reserves in Canterbury following the recent seismic activity. Many buildings and tracks have suffered damage as a result of the earthquakes and the Department asks that members of the public please comply with all safety signs at DOC sites.
Date: 09 September 2010
In amongst all the recent seismic activity, Department of Conservation (DOC) staff were called to retrieve a dolphin that had washed up at Pōhatu/Flea Bay, Banks Peninsula.
Date: 10 September 2010
Preliminary checks to tracks, huts and visitor facilities in Canterbury have so far revealed no major damage, but the Department of Conservation (DOC) is asking people to continue to stay away until inspections are fully completed.
Date: 10 September 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Two kiwi eggs that survived the Canterbury earthquake in their incubator at Christchurch's Willowbank Wildlife Reserve are getting ready to hatch, right as New Zealanders prepare to celebrate Conservation Week, says Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson.
Date: 09 September 2010
Conservation Week begins on Sunday and this year DOC and community groups have organised a wide variety of events in the Gisborne Whakatane Area.
Date: 10 September 2010
Two new faces will take to the screen as they make their debut appearance on TVNZ's Meet the Locals special Conservation Week episode on Monday.
Date: 07 September 2010
Auckland Zoo and the Department of Conservation are launching Auckland's Conservation Week celebrations at the Zoo on Sunday 12 September with a family fun day from 11am to 2pm.
Date: 07 September 2010
The ambitious Rangitoto and Motutapu restoration project has won the Department of Conservation a major international environmental award.
Date: 08 September 2010
New eye-catching displays in the DOC Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre enhance visitors' awareness of what is special about the area.
Date: 07 September 2010
In the aftermath of Saturday's earthquake DOC is checking the safety of tracks and huts in the Canterbury area and asks that the public stays away from these until the all clear is given.
Date: 07 September 2010
The Department has made the decision to postpone its public Conservation Week events planned for Christchurch.
Date: 07 September 2010
The economic and environmental benefits of two of the Department of Conservation's major conservation projects have won the department international awards.
Date: 07 September 2010
When farmer Rick Braddock took over the farm on Motutapu Island, he had no idea it was going to be the start of a lifelong interest in conservation.
Date: 06 September 2010
People are being asked to stay clear of tracks and huts in the Canterbury area until the Department of Conservation (DOC) has checked their safety.
Date: 03 September 2010
Otako and Blitzen, two male takahē from Burwood Bush are now the new 'bachelors' checking out prospective female birds on Kapiti.
Date: 30 August 2010
ZEALANDIA and the Department of Conservation (DOC) are hoping to remove brown trout from the upper Karori reservoir and the streams flowing into it this summer. This would be a "first" for New Zealand, as the complete removal of introduced fish from streams has not been successful here before.
Date: 28 August 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson today praised an outstanding community effort that has enabled predator-proof fencing protection for a new colony of Hutton's shearwater - a seabird species unique to Kaikoura.
Date: 27 August 2010
Due to heavy rain and river conditions the whitebait season has got off to a slow start. However, DOC staff still seized five nets from whitebaiters fishing in rivers in the Gisborne Whakatane Area.
Date: 26 August 2010
A rescued Far North kiwi chick has been successfully returned to his home thanks to the dedicated local BNZ Save the Kiwi and Whakaangi Landcare Trust team.
Date: 26 August 2010
Two years after its establishment Wellington's Taputeranga Marine Reserve is still under the watchful gaze of vigilant south coast communities.
Date: 25 August 2010
For the first time, the Department of Conservation is using DNA profiling in an effort to update population estimates for the critically endangered Maui's dolphin.
Date: 20 August 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson has today declined a proposal for a marine reserve in Akaroa Harbour, Canterbury, after nearly 15 years of deliberation.
Date: 24 August 2010
Read updates on the mass whale stranding in the Far North, where 58 pilot whales were found stranded on a remote Far North beach.
Date: 20 August 2010
Planting a school garden may seem far removed from saving endangered birds, but children in Fiordland are confident it will soon have them playing a vital role in takahē conservation.
Date: 20 August 2010
58 pilot whales have been found stranded on a remote Far North beach this morning.
Date: 19 August 2010
No kiwi have died since the capture of a ferret last week at Pukaha Mount Bruce in northern Wairarapa, but Department of Conservation (DOC) rangers remain on alert.
Date: 19 August 2010
St Thomas' School of Winton got more than they bargained for on their recent camp at the Deep Cove Hostel in Doubtful Sound.
Date: 19 August 2010
The Department of Conservation says a West Coast research project has confirmed that 1080 poses only a minimal risk to fernbird populations.
Date: 17 August 2010
The Department of Conservation's Whangarei Area Office in partnership with the Ngatiwai Trust Board have started planning an eradication operation to remove kiore (pacific rats) off Taranga (Hen) Island next winter.
Date: 17 August 2010
The Department of Conservation urges whitebaiters around Northland to make sure they are aware of and complying with fishing rules this whitebait season.
Date: 12 August 2010
A highly-trained dog is working at Pukaha Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre as the hunt continues for the predators threatening kiwi in the reserve.
Date: 11 August 2010
As the whitebait fishing season gets underway this Sunday (15 August), DOC is calling on whitebaiters to only take what they need to help sustain the fishery and enable good runs in future years.
Date: 10 August 2010
Sunday 15th August marks the start of another whitebait fishing season for areas other than the West Coast of the South Island. Whitebaiters are reminded that DOC staff will be patrolling fishing sites to check people are abiding by the whitebaiting regulations.
Date: 05 August 2010
The invasive garden tree Taiwan cherry is out in flower right now! Its blossoms have spread a deep pink through Whangarei city and into surrounding forests.
Date: 10 August 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Dr Colin Burrows, a Christchurch botanist who has spent his lifetime studying, protecting and teaching others about New Zealand's native plant life has been awarded one of the country's highest conservation honours, Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson announced today.
Date: 09 August 2010
Source: Pukaha Mount Bruce
A further five dead kiwi have been discovered in the Pukaha Mount Bruce Forest, following four kiwi deaths late last month, and the capture of a large male ferret.
Date: 09 August 2010
Source: Offices of the Minister of Conservation and the Minister of Fisheries
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson and Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Phil Heatley today welcomed the release of the recommendation report from the West Coast Marine Protection Forum.
Date: 06 August 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
An upgraded website explaining where people can hunt and what they can and can't hunt has been launched by the Department of Conservation, Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson announced today.
Date: 05 August 2010
A Northcote resident has pleaded guilty to taking kina from Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve in January 2010, and to giving false personal details to a warranted Department of Conservation ranger.
Date: 05 August 2010
David Wilks, currently General Manager Tourism Development at Tourism New Zealand, is joining the Department of Conservation to get more businesses investing in the great outdoors.
Date: 03 August 2010
Some of Northland's most spectacular natural features are highlighted in a new report on the natural features of the Manaia Ecological District.
Date: 03 August 2010
DOC advises people concerned about seals that, unless a seal is at danger from being attacked by a dog, the best policy is to leave them be.
Date: 27 July 2010
Work towards establishing a self-sustaining population of kiwi at Pukaha Mount Bruce has suffered a setback with four of the birds in the forest falling victim to a ferret attack.
Date: 23 July 2010
DOC is considering changes to its procedures after an investigation into an incident where rat bait fell from a helicopter operating on a remote Fiordland island last month.
Date: 26 July 2010
Source: Department of Conservation
A recreation plan has been released by the Department of Conservation which gives clear direction on recreational activities in Ashburton Lakes and the upper Rangitata River.
Date: 15 July 2010
Darkstar, a young kiwi accidentally hit by a car in Northland in early May, leaves Auckland Zoo for her forest home on the Tutukaka Coast today, following two months of successful treatment in a cast for a badly fractured foot.
Date: 16 July 2010
The Department of Conservation is planning several changes to the Silver Peaks Scenic Reserve near Dunedin which will improve safety and recreation facilities in the area.
Date: 20 July 2010
The sounds of the forest can again be heard on Mana Island thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers from the Friends of Mana Island (FOMI).
Date: 16 July 2010
Water quality monitoring results released to the Department of Conservation have shown no trace of the rat poison which fell into a large lake on Anchor Island in Fiordland eleven days ago.
Date: 12 July 2010
The death of a female kiwi run over on the Bruce road this week has upset the Whakapapa Village community. Locals are frustrated the death has occurred only a few days after the traffic sign warning drivers to look out for kiwi was again stolen.
Date: 15 July 2010
Boat strike and drowning through net entanglement have been ruled out as potential causes of death of the dolphin believed to be Moko.
Date: 14 July 2010
Four men were fined in the Tauranga District Court today, after DOC staff caught them fishing in the Tuhua (Mayor Island) Marine Reserve in the Bay of Plenty last summer.
Date: 14 July 2010
A decision has been made that Moko's remains will be returned to Matakana Island, and buried on the shore that his body came to rest.
Date: 13 July 2010
Although young and still new to the job, Nelson Lakes kiwi dog Fen is showing flair for finding kiwi, surprising Department of Conservation staff with a new kiwi chick.
Date: 12 July 2010
The Anne River Hut, a 14-bunk hut on the popular St James Walkway, was razed to the ground by fire around 1-2 July 2010 says DOC.
Date: 12 July 2010
Marine mammal pathologists at Massey University completed a necropsy on the dolphin carcass presumed to be Moko on Saturday.
Date: 12 July 2010
A big community spring clean of Tasman Bay beaches in time for summer is planned this November and a call is going out to local groups to sign up to take part in it.
Date: 12 July 2010
An historic naval site on Moturua Island in the Bay of Islands is ship-shape after a clean-up by a DOC led crew.
Date: 09 July 2010
After a karakia in Rotorua this morning by Pouoto Ngaropo, cultural advisor for Ngati Awa, the dolphin carcass believed to be Moko has arrived safely at Massey University in Palmerston North.
Date: 08 July 2010
Tauranga DOC staff removed a dolphin carcass suspected to be that of Moko the friendly bottlenose dolphin, from Matakana Island this afternoon.
Date: 08 July 2010
Source: The Department of Conservation, Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and Industrial Research Limited (IRL)
Wellington's Matiu/Somes Island is a step closer to becoming a showcase for sustainable energy, with tenders being invited this week for the supply and installation of a renewable energy system on the island.
Date: 08 July 2010
DOC staff say a dolphin carcass washed up on Matakana Island yesterday afternoon is probably Moko the bottlenose dolphin.
Date: 06 July 2010
A joint interagency co-operation between DOC and Ministry of Fisheries resulted in the prosecution of a Gisborne man for taking 16 crayfish and 42 kina from Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve.
Date: 06 July 2010
The Anne River Hut, a 14-bunk hut on the St James Walkway, has burnt down.
Date: 02 July 2010
The Department of Conservation has completed its annual review of hut fees for backcountry walks and Great Walks.
Date: 29 June 2010
The release of three pairs of the world's rarest kiwi - the rowi - will make history on June 29 when they are transferred to Marlborough Sounds' Blumine Island in an effort to encourage breeding.
Date: 25 June 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
A full investigation will be undertaken to ensure the poison spill resulting from an equipment failure over Anchor Island does not happen again, says Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson.
Date: 25 June 2010
DOC has launched an investigation after a pod containing rat poison fell from a helicopter operating on a remote Fiordland Island yesterday.
Date: 23 June 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson today received the final report outlining the recommended process for establishing a new Game Animal Council.
Date: 16 June 2010
The Matawai and Motu communities have celebrated Arbor Day and Matariki.
Date: 21 June 2010
Primary school teacher Christine Longbottom was hosted by DOC's Curio Bay Summer Warden programme so she can focus on her fellowship study on the survival of threatened bird populations.
Date: 17 June 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Over 4,400 hectares of land have been officially added to Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson announced today.
Date: 17 June 2010
A new short DVD developed by DOC '1080: Good News for Conservation' is now available to the public in the lead up to the 1080 possum control in the Waitutu area of Fiordland National Park.
Date: 15 June 2010
Source: Department of Conservation and Animal Health Board
DOC and the Animal Health Board have joined forces to boost native bird populations and forest health in the Tararua ranges, and reduce the risk of bovine tuberculosis (TB) to cattle and deer herds in the Wairarapa.
Date: 11 June 2010
Families, groups, and trampers can shake off the mid-winter blues with a stay in one of two new 10 bunk huts, available to book exclusively in Rimutaka Forest Park's Orongorongo Valley, near Wellington.
Date: 10 June 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Whale sharks, katipo spiders and all giant weta will now be absolutely protected under changes to the Wildlife Act, Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson announced today.
Date: 09 June 2010
Artists with a yearning for the natural and beautiful are invited to apply for three Wild Creations artists-in-residence opportunities in 2011.
Date: 10 June 2010
Leading company director and environmental champion Rob Fenwick has signed up with the Department of Conservation in a drive to encourage more businesses to invest in conservation.
Date: 02 June 2010
Bay of Islands school children have been taking part in a scientific experiment which is directly helping Project Island Song's vision to restore the islands of the eastern Bay of Islands (Ipipiri).
Date: 08 June 2010
DOC scientists and former whalers on their annual watch for whales in Cook Strait this winter will themselves come under the gaze of thousands of schoolchildren.
Date: 02 June 2010
DOC remains fully committed to its frontline conservation work on Great Barrier Island and is not looking to cut spending or pull out all its staff.
Date: 01 June 2010
DOC is calling on the public to report any sightings of southern right whales along the New Zealand coastline.
Date: 25 May 2010
On Saturday 15th May the Brunner Mine site was opened celebrating the developments that have been completed over the last few years.
Date: 31 May 2010
Lock up your doves - falcons are on the prowl. DOC has had calls of complaints from dove, pigeon and even free-range chicken owners that their birds are falling prey to New Zealand falcon/kārearea.
Date: 31 May 2010
The Canterbury Aoraki Conservation Board invites nominations of conservation projects that show the love for New Zealand for their 2010 Conservation Awards.
Date: 25 May 2010
In a landmark ceremony, DOC and the Ngatiwai Trust Board signed an agreement for the management of two of the Marotere (Chicken) Islands to be undertaken by the Trust Board and that they are jointly planning to eradicate kiore (rats) off Taranga (Hen) Island.
Date: 25 May 2010
Source: Pukaha Mount Bruce Board
Plans for a major upgrade of the kiwi nocturnal house at Pukaha Mount Bruce have received a major boost with approval by the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board of a $300,000 grant towards the project.
Date: 24 May 2010
Finding common ground is vital if we are to overcome the "terrible, negative statistics of species and habitat loss" volunteers attending Saturday's Restoration Day conference were told.
Date: 24 May 2010
DOC has applied to the Environment Court to put its appeal against the Mokihinui Hydro Proposal on hold.
Date: 22 May 2010
Source: Joint media release from DOC, Greater Wellington Regional Council, and Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board.
Greater Wellington Regional Council, the Wellington Hawke's Bay Conservation Board and DOC are joining forces to recognise and reward the groups, businesses and individuals going the extra mile for environmental restoration and conservation in the Wellington region.
Date: 23 May 2010
The winning shot in the Ō Tū Wharekai Wetland Restoration Project photo competition went beyond the usual 'chocolate box cover' announced the Department of Conservation today.
Date: 20 May 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
The Government will spend more than $5 million developing new or improved campgrounds and three separate cycle trails over the next year, Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson says.
Date: 20 May 2010
Source: Department of Conservation and Auckland Museum
On Saturday 22 May, young Aucklanders will join thousands of people around the world in the 'Green Wave', a day of action marking the International Day of Biodiversity.
Date: 20 May 2010
Department of Conservation staff are concerned over the recent trend in peoples interactions with Whakatane's resident marine mammal, Moko the bottlenose dolphin.
Date: 20 May 2010
Cee Cee, one of the best-known rowi kiwi, was found dead on the side of Ōkārito Road on May 13.
Date: 16 May 2010
Tutoko Suspension Bridge on the Milford Road made news last month as the finish line of the annual naked tunnel run. it is making news again as the site of one of the largest hertitage projects undertaken in Fiordland.
Date: 18 May 2010
A Te Runanga o Ngati Porou Trainee Cadets partnership with Department of Conservation (DOC) has proven to be a successful initiative.
Date: 14 May 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson today officially opened the Oteake Conservation Park at a ceremony in St Bathans.
Date: 12 May 2010
Repeated acts of vandalism at the Pourakino Picnic Area-Mores Top Mill site near Otautau could lead to DOC removing its facilities and resources from the area.
Date: 14 May 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson today announced a revamp to improve the processing of permits for commercial activities on public conservation land.
Date: 11 May 2010
Source: Department of Conservation and Victoria University's Centre for Marine Environmental and Economic Research
Scientists have a better understanding of what lies beneath the waters of Wellington's Taputeranga Marine Reserve after undertaking an underwater survey during summer.
Date: 11 May 2010
The economic pinch is having far reaching affects, seen in the low number of applications to adopt Kaimanawa horses this year.
Date: 06 May 2010
Didymo has been found in three more Nelson-Tasman rivers this year but there have been no new finds of the pest algae in Marlborough and Kaikoura waterways.
Date: 06 May 2010
The call of the kiwi can again be heard in Kahurangi National Park's Flora Stream area.
Date: 07 May 2010
The man who pleaded guilty to whitebait offences appeared in the Ruatoria Court charged with whitebait offences last week.
Date: 05 May 2010
Source: A joint media release from the Department of Conservation, Pukaha Mount Bruce Board, and the BNZ Save the Kiwi Trust
A warm welcome is anticipated from the Wairarapa community on Friday when an RNZAF Hercules touches down at Masterton's Hood Aerodrome with up to 30 kiwi on board.
Date: 05 May 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson today said charges would be laid against five Norwegian hunters who shot and killed two protected kereru.
Date: 03 May 2010
A New Zealand inspired burger chain operating in the UK, is the latest addition to the Whakatane Kiwi Trust's corporate partners.
Date: 03 May 2010
Stunning photos of the Southland coast and marine life are on display as part of the DOC Sea Week Fish for the Future marine photo competition held in early March.
Date: 03 May 2010
Public access through Cathedral Cove's iconic archway is to be closed following recommendations in a draft report provided to DOC by specialist geotechnical engineers.
Date: 03 May 2010
Construction work has begun at the Ongarue end of the Pureora to Ongarue rail trail being developed through Pureora Forest Park by DOC.
Date: 30 April 2010
An historic train bridge in Karangahake Gorge is clothed in scaffolding this week, as contractors get to work on a new paint job.
Date: 30 April 2010
Source: Offices of the Minister of Energy and Resources and the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Energy and Resources Gerry Brownlee and Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson have announced an extension to the public submission period on the government's proposals outlined on March 22 in the discussion paper Maximising our Mineral Potential: Stocktake of Schedule 4 of the Crown Minerals Act and beyond.
Date: 30 April 2010
Abel Tasman National Park's Gibb's Hill Track opens for mountain biking for five months from this Saturday, 1 May.
Date: 29 April 2010
The Department of Conservation has today lodged papers with the Environment Court appealing the decision to grant resource consent for the Mokihinui Hydro Proposal on the West Coast.
Date: 27 April 2010
A 1.8 tonne digger is being used by DOC staff to maintain and repair the track from the Petersons Road car park to Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Lodge and down to the Oroua River campsite.
Date: 27 April 2010
In Mid March, a mapping project commenced of the historic Ngati Porou Pa site, Hungahungatoroa in the Karakatuwhero Valley, Te Araroa.
Date: 23 April 2010
"My enduring memory of Don Bogie is his face as he crawled into 'Middle Peak Hotel' on the morning of 29 November 1982," Mark Inglis recollects.
Date: 27 April 2010
Rare and endangered birds are already returning to the now pest-free islands of Ipipiri (Eastern Bay of Islands) following Project Island Song pest control operations.
Date: 23 April 2010
The release of five juvenile kaka bred at Wellington Zoo into the Pukaha Mount Bruce forest this week will boost the gene pool of the existing population... but the newcomers may have to learn the local lingo.
Date: 26 April 2010
DOC is currently evacuating trampers from the Milford and Routeburn Tracks in Fiordland National Park.
Date: 23 April 2010
With the duck shooting season fast approaching, DOC would like to remind shooters to familiarise themselves with pateke to avoid the endangered species being shot.
Date: 23 April 2010
A new DOC hut and camping facility is under construction at Crosbies Settlement on the main Coromandel range, about 12km north east of Thames.
Date: 21 April 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson has today officially opened the new Angelus Hut in Nelson Lakes National Park.
Date: 22 April 2010
DOC staff from Ohakune have recently been confronted by the damage feral cats can do when left to target our native wildlife. In the space of 7 days, one cat killed a total of 102 bats, and these only the ones that were found.
Date: 21 April 2010
It is hoped that the elusive mouse on Mokoia Island that had been evading DOC staff for the past three weeks has finally been caught.
Date: 20 April 2010
Source: Nelson/Marlborough Conservation Board
The Nelson/Marlborough Conservation Board has referred the partially-reviewed Kahurangi National Park Management Plan to the New Zealand Conservation Authority (NZCA).
Date: 15 April 2010
Hot on the heels of two native bird species reappearing on Motutapu, one of New Zealand's best known songbirds - the bellbird - has also been rediscovered on the island.
Date: 15 April 2010
DOC staff lend a hand to Potaka Marae around the East Cape.
Date: 12 April 2010
A Massey University pathology report has identified that a Hector's dolphin found beachcast near Greymouth in February is likely to have died as a result of becoming entangled in a set net.
Date: 12 April 2010
A clean-up of eleven eastern Bay of Islands' island beaches as a belated part of Seaweek 2010 was highly successful.
Date: 29 March 2010
DOC wants the public's assistance with an unusual request to locate any photos taken of Moko (the bottlenose dolphin) with his teeth.
Date: 01 April 2010
Volunteers are working with DOC and the Waituna Landcare Group to help restore an area of the internationally important Waituna/Awarua wetland complex in a new initiative called "Catchment Care".
Date: 06 April 2010
A dead rat in a trap and multiple mice tracks were discovered on the Island during routine monthly checks by DOC staff.
Date: 06 April 2010
Native birds, including great spotted kiwi and whio/blue duck, are likely to have had more breeding success in recent months in Kahurangi National Park's Anatoki River area due to aerial 1080 pest control in October.
Date: 28 March 2010
The 150 attendees at the Westland Tai Poutini National Park 50th anniversary celebrations enjoyed this historic event immensely.
Date: 31 March 2010
Strong vocal compositions that best captured the theme and included the words "Fish for the Future" were the winners in the Sea Week "Best Composition" announced earlier this month.
Date: 29 March 2010
Turangi is justifiably world famous for its trout, but now there is a new group of fish set to make their mark on the local tourism scene.
Date: 27 March 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson kicked off Westland Tai Poutini National Park's 50th anniversary celebrations today in Franz Josef and officially opened the newly sealed glacier roads.
Date: 26 March 2010
The Department of Conservation has been fielding calls this week from members of the public sighting weka in central Christchurch.
Date: 25 March 2010
Three new arrivals have been welcomed to the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project's great spotted kiwi population.
Date: 11 March 2010
A block of land gifted by Rio Tinto at Punakaiki will help to protect the significant values of forest in the adjoining Nikau reserve.
Date: 24 March 2010
Eleven kiwi chicks have been found dead in a "kiwi creche" facility near Karapiro.
Date: 24 March 2010
The Department of Conservation is in discussions with owners of private land crossed by the Queen Charlotte Track about the landowners' proposal to charge a user access fee.
Date: 22 March 2010
Source: Offices of the Minister of Energy and Resources and the Minister of Conservation
Energy and Resources Minister Gerry Brownlee and Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson today released a discussion paper containing a suite of measures to facilitate the environmentally responsible development of New Zealand's extensive mineral estate.
Date: 24 March 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
News that 11 kiwi chicks have been killed by a predator at the private Warrenheip reserve near Karapiro is a sad blow, says Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson.
Date: 22 March 2010
It's time for the annual Pureora Forest Park Hunting Competition. The competition is run over the roar period with this year's dates set from 20 March to 24 April.
Date: 17 February 2010
More than 200 people showed love for Kaituna wetland on 14 February celebrating World Wetlands Day with the official opening of a new kayak trail and unveiling of the 2010 Game Bird Habitat stamp.
Date: 17 March 2010
An innovative possum proof gate designed by the Department of Conservation will be used as another method of possum control in the Waitutu Forest.
Date: 16 March 2010
Hunters proposing to take dogs into Puketi and Omahuta forests now need a kiwi aversion certificate to receive a new hunting permit. The initiative is part of the Department of Conservation's campaign to protect adult Northland kiwi from their major threat - dogs.
Date: 19 March 2010
One of the South Island's most popular day walks, with views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, has been given the green light for a major upgrade.
Date: 12 March 2010
The 18th March marks the 40th anniversary of the stranding of 59 sperm whales on the northern end of Wainui Beach, Gisborne.
Date: 05 March 2010
An official opening has been held to celebrate a new Red Hills Hut in Mt Richmond Forest Park that is on the national Te Araroa tramping trail.
Date: 08 March 2010
New Zealanders will head to our beaches and marine reserves this week as thousands take part in Seaweek activities around the country.
Date: 08 March 2010
The Department of Conservation is rejecting suggestions a group of weed sprayers were not advised about its recent 1080 operation targeting possums and rats on Mt Taranaki.
Date: 26 February 2010
With Seaweek coming up on 7-14 March, the Department of Conservation (DOC) is encouraging Bay of Plenty residents to get to know their local marine reserve at Tuhua (Mayor Island).
Date: 08 March 2010
The Kaimai catchments will benefit from a community-driven approach to managing its natural resources following the signing of a partnership agreement today by the Department of Conservation, Environment Bay of Plenty and Environment Waikato.
Date: 08 March 2010
The caretaker on Tuhua (Mayor Island) and (DOC) staff have worked over the weekend to ramp up the island's rat detection and control system, after a rat was reportedly seen.
Date: 05 March 2010
The trial release of twenty pateke/brown teal into Fiordland last year has proven so successful that forty more birds will be transferred there this month.
Date: 05 March 2010
A new dog has joined DOC's rowi kiwi team to help save this critically endangered species.
Date: 05 March 2010
A reward put up to catch those responsible for last month's spate of deliberately lit fires in Okarito Kiwi Zone has reached $8600.
Date: 05 March 2010
Canterbury's great spotted kiwi/roroa will feature on Bush Telly 2010, when DOC ranger Malcolm Wylie is interviewed on day two of the Ellerslie International Flower Show.
Date: 02 March 2010
The Hawke's Bay marine environment, and efforts being being made to protect it, will be highlighted at Seaweek Sunday on 7 March.
Date: 02 March 2010
Beach and underwater clean-ups, open days, talks and a photo competition are among activities on offer in Wellington during Seaweek (March 7-14), which this year challenges people to think about their contribution to sustainable fishing.
Date: 03 March 2010
DOC's new streamlined on-line application system will cut red tape and allow tour operators to be granted a permit for selected guided walks faster.
Date: 01 March 2010
This month is Whio Awareness Month. The whio, or blue duck, is one of New Zealand's most endangered birds.
Date: 03 March 2010
March 2010 is Whio Awareness Month. The whio, or blue duck, is one of New Zealand's most endangered birds. There are only approximately 2500 whio left in New Zealand - a lot less than the number of kiwi.
Date: 02 March 2010
The Bay of Islands diving community and local residents are being called upon to take the plunge as volunteers during Seaweek 2010 on Friday 12 March and clean-up marine and shoreline debris.
Date: 02 March 2010
Department of Conservation (DOC) are urging you to think about the contribution you make to sustainable fishing through Seaweek this year which starts this Sunday 7th March.
Date: 26 February 2010
Alpine, one of the first birds in the takahē recovery programme and the longest surviving bird, has died.
Date: 25 February 2010
A cute little village on the West Coast side of the Southern Alps called Otira is now the rata capital of the world - next time you are going through slow down and take a look.
Date: 25 February 2010
Source: Department of Conservation and Greater Wellington Regional Council
Surveys revealing high numbers of rats and few birds in the Tararua Forest Park have highlighted the need for pest control.
Date: 25 February 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
New parks and private land are to be added to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park to mark its 10th anniversary, Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson announced today.
Date: 25 February 2010
The Department of Conservation has recently upgraded the Tripp Street picnic area in Talbot Forest, Geraldine, Canterbury, with a new road, parking, drainage and earthworks.
Date: 26 February 2010
The Department of Conservation is running a photo competition that puts the focus on their Ō Tū Wharekai Wetland Restoration Project, in the Ashburton Lakes area.
Date: 23 February 2010
The road to recovery for the critically endangered takahē just got a little easier. At least 21 chicks hatched on predator free island sanctuaries.
Date: 26 February 2010
Extreme fire danger has triggered the Department of Conservation to place a total fire ban over conservation lands (and within one kilometre of those lands) in the Mackenzie Basin and Ashburton Lakes today.
Date: 24 February 2010
As a result of Moko's (the bottlenose dolphin) continued presence at West End, Otarawairere and the Whakatane Heads, DOC again repeat their public warning message about safety.
Date: 23 February 2010
Kennedia rubicunda, commonly known as dusky coral pea vine comes from Eastern Australia. It grows quickly and can suppress native species. It's under regular DOC surveillance in Northland to prevent it from establishing.
Date: 22 February 2010
A community consultation process about progress with construction and opportunities created by the "Central North Island Rail Trail" and "Mountains to Sea" cycle trails will take place next week.
Date: 22 February 2010
When planning a trip in the Ruahine ranges, contact the local DOC office to find out about access requirements.
Date: 19 February 2010
Making mini-mud pies, sieving glowing embers and grinding steel seem like hard ways to start a fire, but the results suggest otherwise, says Masters student Heather Wakelin.
Date: 19 February 2010
Bush Telly is excited to welcome West Coast-based Conservation Officer Ian Gill to the 2010 Bush Telly crew as co-director and cameraman.
Date: 18 February 2010
Minister of Conservation, The Hon. Kate Wilkinson has today launched a new agenda to protect and enhance New Zealand's parks, reserves and open spaces.
Date: 16 February 2010
A German tourist, Manfred Bachmann was apprehended in Christchurch on Sunday with 16 endangered jewelled geckos in his possession.
Date: 17 February 2010
A new ford being built across the Catchpool Stream in the Rimutaka Forest Park will improve access for people visiting the park, and the native fish inhabiting the stream.
Date: 16 February 2010
A bird not known to exist until 1997 has at last got its own scientific name.
Date: 16 February 2010
Department of Conservation Rangers in Te Anau are more than a little excited by the recent confirmed sighting of long-tailed bats feeding by a street lamp in a residential area of Te Anau Township.
Date: 15 February 2010
Work begun this month on the removal of the existing MacKinnon Pass shelter, which had deteriorated having stood 25 years of the worst weather Fiordland could throw at it. In its place, a new shelter will be constructed, due to be completed by May 2010.
Date: 12 February 2010
DOC is very pleased with the outcome following this week's prosecutions in the Opotiki District Court.
Date: 16 February 2010
Sharpen those vocal skills! DOC and Turanga FM are encouraging entries in the lead up to Seaweek (7-14 March) in the "Fish for the Future Best Composition" competition.
Date: 12 February 2010
Construction began recently on a new hut going into the Matemateaonga Track.
Date: 11 February 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson has welcomed today's decision by the New Zealand Conservation Authority to kick off the formal process that could lead to a National Park in Northland.
Date: 11 February 2010
It's been only 10 months since the release of toutouwai (North island robin) in the northern Coromandel, but this week confirmation came in that the birds are breeding.
Date: 11 February 2010
A set of wheels off an old tramway bogie used to transport logs down the Kauaeranga Valley in the long gone kauri logging days has been unearthed in the bed of the Kauaeranga River.
Date: 08 February 2010
Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson is calling on the public to help put an end to the series of apparently deliberately-lit fires on the West Coast that is putting the resurgence of New Zealand's rarest kiwi at risk.
Date: 10 February 2010
A new map of Mt Richmond Forest Park is now available which the Department of Conservation hopes will help put the park more on the map as an outdoor destination.
Date: 04 February 2010
Twelve young whio/blue ducks reared at Christchurch's Peacock Springs Wildlife Centre have been released this week into Kahurangi National Park's Wangapeka-Fyfe whio security site.
Date: 04 February 2010
Fires around Northland in recent weeks are all under investigation. The three fires, at Ruakaka, Waikare and Lake Ohia, occurred during an ongoing fire ban around the region.
Date: 04 February 2010
A Norway rat discovered in a trap on the 'pest-free' island of Motuora in the Hauraki Gulf has sparked a Department of Conservation response operation.
Date: 01 February 2010
All the albatross chicks at Taiaroa Head have hatched without problems - the first time the Royal Albatross Colony has achieved a 100 percent success rate in 16 years.
Date: 29 January 2010
New Zealand's world famous parrot - Sirocco the kākāpō - has been officially recognised as a conservation ambassador by the Prime Minister John Key.
Date: 29 January 2010
On 28 February Forest and Bird Manawatu are leading a wetland trip as part of the "Seven Wonders" summer nature programme.
Date: 28 January 2010
A photograph taken of a baby tuatara on Wellington Harbour's Matiu/Somes Island this month has confirmed for the first time that the rare reptiles are hatching on the island.
Date: 26 January 2010
Coromandel holiday makers, beach goers, and tourism operators have recently been reporting numbers of dead little blue penguins washing ashore along the east coast.
Date: 26 January 2010
DOC will be taking no further action following the alleged harassment of Moko the Dolphin that occurred at Omaio Bay on the East Coast two weeks ago.
Date: 26 January 2010
Hans Kurt Kubus - who was was caught smuggling lizards by the New Zealand Customs Service at Christchurch Airport on Sunday 6 December 2009 - has been sentenced.
Date: 22 January 2010
Registrations have opened for the 50th Anniversary of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Register now for a fun weekend.
Date: 25 January 2010
A report from DOC Marine Officer, Laura Allum, confirms that 35 whales were successfully re-floated yesterday.
Date: 18 January 2010
One of the most intact dune ecosystems along the Wairarapa south coast is being protected through a partnership between the Department of Conservation and the landowners.
Date: 18 January 2010
DOC is currently surveying the Canterbury coast for basking sharks and seeks sightings from the public to help with the search.
Date: 14 January 2010
The wellbeing of the Northern New Zealand dotterel population at Matakana Island is being threatened by the recklessness of beach patrons.
Date: 13 January 2010
Nearly 30 dead or dying little blue penguins have been found washed up along the Taranaki coastline in the last couple of days from Warea in the south to Waiiti beach in the north.
Date: 08 January 2010
Friends of Flora's bid to return kiwi to Kahurangi National Park's Flora Stream area is being boosted by Aucklander Des Lehndorf, who this week began walking the length of the South Island to raise funds in support of the project.
Date: 07 January 2010
Work on the Tarawera Trail track will soon begin as a certificate of compliance from Rotorua District Council gives the go ahead to start building.