Source: Radio New Zealand
It is estimated that there are 5000-8000 native falcons (kārearea) in Aotearoa. File photo. Supplied / Paul O’Hagan
Native bush falcons are breeding at Auckland’s Hūnua Ranges after years of uncertainty about the species’ future.
It is estimated that there are 5000-8000 native falcons (kārearea) in the country. They are classified as ‘Threatened – Nationally Increasing’.
But a 40-day observation of kārearea at Hūnua this summer – commissioned by Auckland Council – led to the discovery of a breeding pair raising two fledglings.
Auckland Council spokesperson Paul Duffy said it was a significant finding.
“This study gives us the first clear evidence that kārearea are successfully breeding in the Te Ngāherehere o Kohukohunui Hūnua Ranges.
“It also shows that intensive predator management and ground-based trapping are giving this threatened species the chance to make a comeback in the Auckland region.”
Not to be mistaken with the more common swamp harrier (kāhu), which glides slowly, the smaller kārearea is New Zealand’s fastest bird, capable of high-speed pursuit through the forest canopy.
Kārearea nest on or near the ground in a simple hollow known as a ‘scrape’, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable to predators such as cats, mustelids, pigs, and possums.
Kārearea specialist Chifuyu Horikoshi, who led the field work, said the result was “incredibly encouraging”.
“Watching kārearea hunt through native forest is breathtaking; they are exceptionally fast, agile, and intelligent birds truly built for pursuit.
“Seeing them deliver prey and continue caring for their young shows this habitat is supporting their full breeding cycle.”
The survey was undertaken between December 2025 and February 2026, and was the first formal assessment of kārearea presence and breeding activity in the park.
Residents are encouraged to report sightings through citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist or eBird, and to include photographs if possible to help with identification.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
