The Forest Bridge Trust Attends Sanctuaries of New Zealand (SONZI) Eventat Orokonui Ecosanctuary
In August, The Forest Bridge Trust had the privilege of attending the Sanctuaries of New Zealand (SONZI) event at the breathtaking Orokonui Ecosanctuary in Coastal Otago. Spanning 307 hectares and protected by a 9km predator fence, Orokonui is a haven for some of New Zealand’s most precious native species. The sanctuary is alive with the calls of Korimako/Bellbird, Kākā, and Kakaruwai/South Island Robin, and provides a home to a pair of Takahe and several Haast Tokoeka kiwi. As a kiwi creche, Orokonui plays a crucial role in Operation Nest Egg, where young kiwi practice living in the wild until they reach a safe size and weight for release.
Orokonui’s commitment extends to caring for rare reptiles like the Otago Skink and Moko Kākāriki/Jewelled Gecko, underscoring the sanctuary’s broad conservation efforts. However, the SONZI event highlighted the increasing challenges in conservation, including funding difficulties and the impacts of climate change. Bird populations, even within sanctuaries, are struggling—a situation exacerbated by environmental shifts.
Keynote speakers delivered presentations and insights to an audience of 120 conservationists on various pressing issues. Tiritiri Matangi provided an update on bird monitoring methodology, while Phil Seddon from Otago University presented on global translocations and the challenges they pose. There were also discussions on the damaging impact of mice on native invertebrates, leading some sanctuaries to establish “sanctuaries within sanctuaries” to protect these vulnerable species.
A highlight was Stephen Horn’s (DOC) talk on the ambitious eradication project on Auckland Island in the sub-Antarctic. The logistical challenges of working in such a remote, infrastructure-free UNESCO World Heritage Site are immense but inspiring. Additionally, Brent Beavan from DOC shared an update on Predator Free 2050 (PF2050), focusing on strategic reviews and addressing gaps in predator management, particularly regarding cats.
There was concern for our seabirds, which are suffering as warmer waters and increased sedimentation disrupt the populations of phytoplankton and zooplankton—the foundation of their food chain. In the Hauraki Gulf, pilchard numbers have plummeted, largely due to overfishing, further straining seabird populations.
Our very own Pablo, the GIS mapping expert at The Forest Bridge Trust, also took the stage to share how our integrated system combines ArcGIS mapping, our Client Relationship Management programme, and TrapNZ to enhance our Predator Control and Community Liaison efforts.
The SONZI event was not just a gathering, but a powerful reminder of the collaborative efforts needed to protect our unique wildlife. It also reinforced the importance of innovation and adaptability in conservation work, especially in the face of growing environmental challenges.