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The surprising benefits of volunteering in nature

30 October

Wellington retiree Penny Race isn’t a gym-goer, but she reckons her arm strength is impressive.

DOC data reveals impact of dogs on kororā

29 October

Reported dog attacks on protected kororā/little blue penguin continue to rise annually, according to new data compiled by DOC.

Satellite-tagged turtles reveal epic journeys

29 October

Satellite tracking of green sea turtles is revealing habitat hotspots and remarkable long-distance movements around New Zealand's coastline.

Sharp-eyed horse rider discovers invasive weed on Ninety Mile Beach

27 October

One observant horse rider, a few photographs, and a quick call to DOC have led to the discovery and removal of 141 invasive sea spurge plants from Ninety Mile Beach.

RealNZ

23 October

DOC and RealNZ are rolling up our sleeves for habitats and taonga species, backing one big project every year, and helping grow the next generation of conservationists.

Mangapurua Track reopens with new, safer bridges

23 October

The Mangapurua Track, an iconic part of the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride, reopens to cyclists on Saturday 24 October with new bridges improving safety and experience for all users.

DOC releases rare knobbled weevils in Canterbury

23 October

Clawing back a critically endangered ancient weevil from the brink of extinction is the goal of a new trial run by DOC.

DOC and RealNZ unite for nature through national partnership

23 October

A new partnership between DOC and RealNZ will boost conservation initiatives and strengthen joint efforts to protect Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique natural heritage.

Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2026

22 October

This is a report on the operations of the Department of Conservation for the year ended 30 June 2026. Published October 2026.

The Pureora Project

22 October

The Pureora Project is a collaborative approach to caring for Pureora Forest Park and surrounding areas, a biodiversity hotspot and popular recreational area in the central North Island.

King shag decline highlights need for space

22 October

A 30 per cent decline in king shag/kawau pāteketeke numbers since 2021 is a stark reminder for Marlborough Sounds boaties to help this nationally endangered species by giving it space when out on the water.

A new chapter for Tunnel Beach

22 October

Upgrades at Dunedin’s Tunnel Beach are improving visitor safety and resilience and sharing the area’s rich Kāi Tahu cultural history.

Hook a fish not a fine: DOC marine protection rangers prepare for summer

22 October

DOC marine protection rangers are preparing for the second summer of patrolling the marine protected areas of the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana.

New assessment of the conservation status of lichens in Aotearoa New Zealand

21 October

Share information to help review the conservation status of lichens in Aotearoa New Zealand. Submissions close on 30 November 2026.

Lake Otamangakau trout recapture study

21 October

Anglers can help improve knowledge of this iconic fishery by reporting details of any large trout they catch, with metal fin clips attached to dorsal fins.

Shine Falls Track

20 October

Walk through farmland and native forest to Shine Falls, the Hawke’s Bay’s highest waterfall. Water drops 58 m over cliffs into a secluded gorge.

New Tūrangi bridge gifted name

20 October

A new suspension bridge on the lower Tongariro River was gifted the name Te Tauranga o Waikari at a karakia and naming ceremony on Friday 16 October.

Start your trip with clean, dry gear

19 October

Find out how to clean your gear to stop invasive weeds, insects, fungi, plant diseases and freshwater pests hitching a ride on your next trip.