New on the site

Application for a WARO concession by the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation

20 August

Have your say on a wild animal recovery operations (WARO) concession application by the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation for a term of 10 years. Submissions close on 19 September 2025.

DOC’s bird flu vaccine trial a success

20 August

An internationally significant research trial carried out by DOC shows vaccination can safely be used to protect some of our most threatened birds from virulent bird flu, should it arrive here.

Whitebaiter tales urge respect for the river

20 August

As whitebaiting season kicks off, two passionate advocates are sharing their story to remind river-goers to put safety first.

Black petrel population monitoring 2024/2025

19 August

These are the final reports for POP2022-01 Black petrel research 2024/25. Published August 2025.

Appointments strengthen local conservation

19 August

The latest New Zealand Conservation Authority and Conservation Board appointments will help to strengthen environmental efforts across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Stay safe while whitebaiting

19 August

Whether you're whitebaiting from the shore, in the surf, or on a stand, it's important to stay safe around water.

Book Tongariro huts for family adventures

19 August

Visitors can now book the iconic Waihohonu and Mangatepopo huts and experience a summer taster of the Tongariro Northern Circuit while Oturere Hut is rebuilt.

Dumped puppies prompt DOC investigation

19 August

DOC staff are investigating after a litter of seven puppies was found dumped in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki earlier this month.

Pioneer Park camp host programme

19 August

October - April each year: Volunteer as a camp host at Pioneer Park Campsite for two weeks or more over the summer.

Get wild at work (in a good way)

19 August

Ready to branch out from business as usual? This Conservation Week, DOC is inviting workplaces across Aotearoa to leaf their desks behind and take action for nature.

Interaction of spotted shags with northern North Island set net fisheries

18 August

This is the final report for INT2024-06 Interaction of spotted shags with northern North Island set net fisheries. Published August 2025.

Sick leopard seal sadly put to sleep

15 August

A leopard seal hauled out on a Christchurch beach over the past week was moved and sadly euthanised today.

Strategic Intentions 2025–2029

15 August

This publication sets out the strategic intentions for the Department of Conservation for 2025-2029. Published July 2025.

More habitat needed for black robins

14 August

The black robin/kakaruia/karure population on the Chatham’s Rangatira/Hokorereoro/South East Island is reaching capacity, highlighting the need for more predator-free habitat.

Stunning bridge reconnects St James Cycle Trail

13 August

Cyclists can once again ride the full St James Cycle Trail loop, near Hanmer Springs, with the opening of a new bridge across the Waiau Uwha River.

Identification and storage of cold-water coral bycatch 1 July 2023 - 30 June 2024

12 August

This is the final annual report for INT2022-03: Identification and storage of cold-water coral bycatch 1 July 2023 - 30 June 2024. Published August 2025.

Act and donate to restore Maukahuka/Auckland Island

12 August

Donate to remove three introduced pests from Maukahuka/Auckland Island so its unique native wildlife can thrive.

Rakitata River revival strategy

12 August

This strategy has been prepared by the programme’s partners. It describes the kaupapa (approach) that guides our work.

Kakī release crucial to species’ survival

12 August

New Zealand’s wild kakī/black stilt population has been boosted with the release of 148 young birds in Te Manahuna/Mackenzie Basin this month.

Assistance sought in finding “callous” sea lion killers

11 August

DOC is urging people to come forward with any information about three New Zealand sea lions/pakake deliberately killed near Oamaru over the weekend.