Translocations
Bringing endangered species home to Nelson
Since the inception of the Sanctuary over 20 years ago, the aim was to bring many of the endangered species back home to the Nelson area. Translocations are a critical part of the reintroduction process. Since being declared pest-free in 2017, we have translocated 5 key species into the Sanctuary.
Translocations only happen thanks to the dedicated effort of many organisations and people. Department of Conservation and iwi are key, as are funding partners and translocation partners e.g. Save the Kiwi. Each translocation into the Sanctuary was supported by multiple parties. View each of our translocation information pages and videos to find out more.
Translocation refers to the capture, transport and release of individuals of a species from one location to another. A translocation is an integral part of reintroduction.
Each translocation is different but every one is meticulously planned. Planning starts years before and a permit must be secured. The comfort and care of the wildlife is key to the whole process and we take great care in minimising any stress on the animal.
Factors that contribute to a successful translocation include handling the wildlife with care, selecting healthy individuals, keeping the animals well-fed and watered, and minimising stress and overheating during transport and release.
View our individual translocation pages for more information on the specific processes for each species.
What’s here?
Meet some of our amazing residents and our incredible flora. Read our species pages and download our species PDFs.
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Ngā mihi nui to @nbs.co.nz for their support of the Sanctuary.
As a longstanding sponsor, NBS plays an important role in helping us protect and preserve our 690-hectare pest-free Sanctuary for future generations.
Your generosity also helps support local people when they need it most. We’re incredibly grateful for your partnership and commitment to our community.
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May 10
Sideways roly-poly: kiwi chick edition 🐣
This kiwi pukupuku chick tries a shortcut, takes an almighty tumble, pops straight back up, and, full of determination, makes up the bank the second time.
Our tiny fluff ball is learning some important life lessons.
If this made you smile, share it with someone who needs that energy today.
#kiwi #kiwichick #newzealandwildlife #wildlifeofnewzealand #nznature #naturelovers #conservation #wildlifevideo #cuteanimals #feelgoodvideo #naturevideo #forestfriends #aotearoa #nelsonnz #visitnelson #savethekiwi
May 7
One year ago, something truly special arrived at the Sanctuary — 41 precious kiwi pukupuku ✨
Since then, it’s been an incredible journey. From careful monitoring to those quiet, thrilling moments of discovery, we celebrated our first chicks just before Christmas last year and now estimate that 10–15 have successfully hatched within the Sanctuary. A powerful sign that this tiny, rare kiwi is thriving.
Our night tours have brought visitors closer than ever to these elusive taonga, creating unforgettable experiences and deepening connections to Aotearoa’s unique wildlife.
Every visit, every donation, and every bit of business support help protect not only kiwi pukupuku, but all the species that call the Sanctuary home. Together, we’re building a future where they can continue to grow and flourish in a safe, pest-free environment.
We’re incredibly grateful to our staff, volunteers, and supporters for helping turn this vision into reality.
Here’s to one year of kiwi pukupuku in Whakatū (Nelson) — and many more to come.
🌿✨
📷Photo credit: Sean McGrath
@docgovtnz @nelsoncitycouncil @digitaldiligencenz @nelsontasmannz @nelsonairportnewzealand @savethekiwinz @terunangaotoa
May 6
🔊 You’ll usually hear kākā before you spot them.
That scratchy, excited call from the canopy is often your first clue.
Listen for the harsh, rhythmic “ka-aa” as they fly above the forest canopy, or a sharp, grating “kraak” if they’re disturbed. They also have a range of loud, musical whistles that can vary from place to place.
Then look up for a large, olive-brown parrot cutting between trunks and branches, often quicker than your eyes can track.
How to spot them: Movement: a chunky forest parrot shape, often climbing and clambering rather than perching still
Watch for colour in flight: a warm red-orange flush under the wings when they take off
Check the ground: “falling fragments” like chewed seed pods, shredded bark, and nibbled plant pieces can mean a kākā has been feeding above you.
Save this for your next walk, and tag someone who always hears birds but never sees them.
“Let them be wild – never feed kākā”
This translocation is being carried out in partnership with @ngatiapakiterato , @docgovtnz and @natureland_wildlife_trust
📷 Photos: Phillip Cochrane
#WelcomingKākā #kākā #theSanctuary #BrookWaimāramaSanctuary #nativebirds #conservationnz #nelsonnz #tetauihu #ngahere
May 4
A Fantastic Fungi Adventure 🍄
Discover the hidden world of fungi at Brook Waimarama Sanctuary!
Join our guided Fungi Tours and explore the incredible diversity of fungi thriving in the ngahere. Learn how these fascinating organisms support the health of the ngahere, spot unique species with knowledgable guides, and experience the sanctuary in a whole new way.
Perfect for nature lovers, curious minds, and anyone wanting a deeper connection to Aotearoa’s native environment.
Spots are limited – book your Fungi Tour today and don’t miss out!
👉 Secure your place now and step into the world beneath the forest floor.
🌐 www.brooksanctuary.org.nz/visit/guided-tours-experiences
@nelsontasmannz
#fungi #brookwaimāramasanctuary #forest #naturelovers #fungitours
Apr 29
We’re open this ANZAC long weekend! 🌳
The Sanctuary will be open across the ANZAC long weekend, offering the perfect chance to explore Aotearoa’s incredible native wildlife, forest tracks, and peaceful ngahere.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a peaceful nature walk, or simply looking to reconnect with the outdoors, the Sanctuary is ready to welcome you. Don’t miss your final chance to see our three kākā in their temporary aviary before they’re released into the wider Sanctuary next week!
👉 Saturday & Sunday | 9:00am – 5:00pm
👉 Monday | 9:00am – 5:00pm
Come and experience the beauty and restoration of this special place.
Plan your visit and see us over the long weekend.
📷Photo credit: Rebecca Bowater - Fungi in the Sanctuary
#brookwaimāramasanctuary #nature #explore #nz
Apr 24
