Mary

Committee Member

Kokako

KOKAKO
ELUSIVE, SPECIAL, ENDANGERED

Living in Clevedon close to the Hunua Ranges Mary has worked and played in the Hunua Ranges for many years and contributes to the conservation of this special place. We ask her what is one of her special connections with the ranges...
 
I am a volunteer on the Kokako Recovery Project.
 
I started on a very warm day in 2006 with little idea of what was in store other than "walking in the Hunuas". Sightings of large pigs (no, I didn't climb a tree despite the folklore), tripping over tree roots, sliding down steep, rocky hillsides, crossing a stream and dragging myself up the final hill whilst carrying a few kilos of rat bait didn't (quite) deter me that first time and I've been back many times since. 
 
I love the varied bush in the Hunua Ranges and am always hopeful of seeing the elusive Kokako. Mostly they elude me. I have heard their beautiful song many more times than I've seen them! 
 
This volunteer work is a great opportunity to experience some of the best native bush in New Zealand, meet some lovely fellow volunteers and feel that I make a contribution to the survival of this native bird. I just wish that I could get there more often!
 
You can find out about the Hunua Kokako Recovery Project at https://www.facebook.com/Hunua.kokako
 
Our supporters
  • Jet Park Airport Hotel
  • Auckland MTB Club
  • Jet iT
  • Big Foot Adventures
  • Auckland Council
  • Kokako Recovery Project
  • AristCake