Date:  14 October 2024

DOC Biodiversity Ranger Kelly Brider says the projected increase is a testament to landscape-scale predator control and community trapping, which has made this large tract of forest a stronghold for Western North Island brown kiwi.

“The increase would result in 9000 kiwi in Whanganui National Park and surrounds by 2030. But for this to happen, kiwi must grow up in a safe environment, so they will survive and have chicks of their own,” Kelly says.

Save the Kiwi Week is underway from 14-20 October, so it’s a perfect time to encourage communities to protect kiwi.

A kiwi avoidance course for dogs is scheduled for 26 October at Gordon Park Scenic Reserve in Whanganui, which is a great way to help keep kiwi safe from dogs.

“Any dog, big or small, can kill a kiwi, and small dogs can fit into burrows and do significant damage. If you are thinking about taking a dog hunting, or have a farm dog, it’s really important that you do this training,” Kelly says.

“A single adult kiwi can lay up to 200 eggs in her lifetime, and her offspring can produce 800 chicks, so even one death is devastating for populations.”

As well as ensuring your dog is ‘kiwi avoidance trained’, dog owners can follow other steps to prevent their dogs from harming kiwi.

“Keep your dog contained on your property, and under control on a lead when out walking. And don’t let your dog roam, as roaming dogs can harm themselves and people, as well as posing a threat to wildlife like kiwi,” Kelly says.

Check DOC’s website information on where you can take your dog. Dogs are not permitted in kiwi sanctuaries and in many conservation areas.

For more information about kiwi avoidance training and to book, visit www.kiwiavoidancetraining.nz or contact DOC’s Whanganui office whanganui@doc.govt.nz.

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