Genesis and DOC joined forces back in 2011 to fast-track the Whio Recovery Plan. The plan entails securing eight whio breeding sites, preparing various recovery sites and boosting pest control efforts to enhance the survival of whio nationwide.

The partnership has been incredibly successful having more than doubled the number of breeding pairs from 298 pairs in 2011 to 725 in 2019. It has done this by protecting more than 1,500 km of river with 5,080 traps. In addition, awareness of the plight of whio and its importance to our native ecosystem has grown significantly through active advocacy campaigns including Whio Awareness Month in March and during Conservation Week.

Partners

The success of the Whio Forever programme comes down to the collective partnership approach taken by DOC and Genesis. By working together, focusing on common aspirations, and sharing resources, knowledge and expertise, the partnership has created a solid foundation from which to grow whio numbers in the wild.

This work is supported generously by countless volunteers, community groups, iwi and schools who trap for whio, and wildlife organisations that run breed-for-release programmes to boost whio numbers.

The Whio Governance committee is made up of representatives from Genesis, DOC and Forest & Bird who manage the funding provided by Genesis. Staff from their respective teams are also involved in the technical and communication/advocacy sub-committees.