Date:  09 December 2025

In 2023 a large colony of black-billed gulls nested in Tūrangi town centre, leaving a generous layer of guano on cars, rooftops, and around businesses. This year, just 15 birds have decided to make the town centre their temporary home.

Department of Conservation Biodiversity Ranger Sarah Tunnicliffe says the small headcount this year is thanks to the town supporting efforts to divert the birds elsewhere.

“Businesses have had streamers and sprinklers on the rooftops to scare the birds away, so only these few determined stragglers have decided to nest here, not like the 150 birds we had in 2023!” says Sarah.

“But we’re still asking for support to make sure these birds don’t associate humans with food, so please don’t feed the gulls, either actively or by leaving your food unattended. Feeding them just encourages them to continue using the town centre, where they cause problems by pooing everywhere and squawking a lot.”

“People might not be aware, but even small actions like not feeding birds count as naturing, and help to protect the nature we love.”

“While the community will be pleased to see only a small number of birds nesting in Tūrangi, we’re not quite sure where the rest of the population has gotten to. If you do come across black-billed gulls nesting elsewhere around Taupō, please contact us at turangi@doc.govt.nz”

Black-billed gulls/tarāpuka are only found in New Zealand and are listed as at risk – declining, Taupō has one of the few populations in the North Island. As an absolutely protected species, they cannot be actively disturbed or interfered with, though simple deterrents prior to nesting behaviour are acceptable.

Sarah says the gulls on the rooftops began nesting at the beginning of November 2025, and DOC is hoping for a less eventful season than previous years.

“We expect to see hatching any time now, and fledging should start toward the end of January.”

“Hopefully none of the hatched chicks wander into the post-shop this time! But if you do come across one of the little fuzzballs wandering the town centre, please contact us on 0800 DOC HOT.”

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