13 Feb 2025
Impact100 Wakatipu was privileged to take part in a truly historic moment as they assisted with the release of endangered takahē into the stunning Rees Valley
Impact100 Wakatipu was privileged to take part in a truly historic moment as they assisted with the release of endangered takahē into the stunning Rees Valley. This event, led by Southern Lakes Sanctuary, and the Department of Conservation marks another step forward in restoring native bird populations and preserving New Zealand's unique biodiversity.
With fewer than 500 takahē left in the wild, each release plays a crucial role in the survival of one of our country’s most treasured species. Believed to be extinct until sighted in 1948 in Fiordland, the opportunity to be part of this conservation milestone is one we will treasure.
The 18 takahe released will be joined by another group next month, and then a further release before winter, with the hope the valley will become home to about 300 birds. This will be a game changer for the takahe as it will almost double the existing population left in the world.
Impact100 Wakatipu awarded Southern Lakes Sanctuary $100,000 late last year which has already been put to good use creating the Impact100 trapline which helps to protect the takahe habitat. The bulk of the funds will be used to create a high country hut where staff who are undertaking monitoring and predator control work will be able to stay and shelter. It will of course be called the Impact100 Hut.
“Being present for the release was an awe-inspiring experience,” said Clare Irons, Chair and donor of Impact100 Wakatipu. “It’s a testament to the power of collaboration - groups of philanthropists coming together to support conservation efforts to protect and restore our environment. I’m looking forward to bringing my children here and telling them we were part of this legacy.”
The $100,000 grant recipient, Southern Lakes Sanctuary, is an organisation dedicated to protecting native species and enhancing the region’s biodiversity. Since 2022, the arsenal of 600 traps they manage in the Rees Valley has removed more than 2000 exotic predators including feral cats, stoats, and rats. However, there is still a lot more work to do, to ensure that the new local inhabitants thrive.
The success of this project has come about due to collaborative effort between government, not-for-profits, business, local iwi Ngai Tahu, landowners and donors.
This takahē release reminds us of the importance of conservation efforts in the Whakatipu region, taking a community led approach to creating solutions, and collaborating to preserve our unique habitat for future generations.