Buff weka, Chatham Islands
Learn all about the feisty and curious weka.
There are numerous threats to weka around the country. Learn about past and current threats to this unique bird.
Find out about the potential for recovery and review DOC's recovery plan for the weka.
There are a number of ways you can protect weka populations around the country.
Buff weka used to roam the Otago and Canterbury high country but no longer, thanks to introduced predators. Watch this video to learn how the islands of Lake Wānaka provide them with a refuge.
By the early 1900s the buff weka had become extinct in their home-range of eastern Canterbury and Otago. But, through a stroke of luck, 12 birds had been introduced to the Chatham Islands in 1905.
Weka were almost extinct on the mainland not so long ago. Watch this video to find out how East Coast/Hawke's Bay staff are helping boost the local population.
Weka/woodhen factsheet (PDF, 171K)
Weka (Gallirallus australis) recovery plan, 90 p, (PDF, 752K). Out of print.
Bird identification online courseLearn how to identify 10 forest birds
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