North Island kokako (Callaeas wilsoni) recovery update: 2000 to 2023

This paper describes North Island kokako (Callaeas wilsoni) recovery actions and outcomes since 2000 at 11 sites with relict populations, and at 12 other mainland and three offshore island sites to where they have been translocated. Populations are now secure on pest-free Te Hauturu-o-Toi / Little Barrier Island and Kapiti Island, and Tiritiri Matangi Island is a valuable advocacy site. Maungatautari is a large (3,300 ha) pest-fenced and pest-free site that has demonstrated rapid kōkako recovery. All other sites are unfenced and require ongoing control of key pests. The national total of kōkako pairs has increased from c. 458 in 2000 to c. 2,327 in 2023; however, latest counts indicate populations at seven sites have declined. Future kōkako recovery will be assisted most by improved, large-scale pest control tools for unfenced mainland sites, and by sustained effective pest control in large key relict populations (Pureora, Te Urewera, Rotoehu, Mapara, and Mokaihaha).