John Oliver

Kārearea, Māori-Named New Zealand Falcon, soars to Victory in National Bird Poll

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – In a stunning result reflecting growing recognition of Māori culture and conservation concerns, the kārearea, or New Zealand falcon, has been crowned bird of the Year in New zealand’s annual poll. The fiercely independent raptor secured a record 9,802 votes, surpassing all previous winners and signaling a shift in public engagement with native species.

The victory comes as New Zealand grapples with declining investment in conservation efforts, despite the economic importance of its unique biodiversity, notably for tourism. The Bird of the Year competition,while frequently enough lighthearted,has increasingly become a platform to highlight the plight of threatened species and advocate for increased protection. This year’s outcome underscores a desire among voters to champion not only charismatic birds but also those facing significant challenges.

The 2024 poll saw unprecedented participation, with a near-record voter turnout. All 73 bird competitors attracted campaign managers, demonstrating a widespread passion for New Zealand’s avian wildlife. Even birds considered unlikely contenders garnered support, with the tākapu, or Australasian gannet, receiving 962 votes thanks to a grassroots campaign led by political journalist Marc Daalder. “Running a campaign for one of the less popular birds is a more satisfying experience because you know the votes your bird received are a result of your hard work,” Daalder said.

The kārearea’s win is particularly significant given its vulnerable status and the cultural importance of the bird to Māori. The name “kārearea” itself is of Māori origin, and the falcon holds a prominent place in Māori mythology and art.

However, the poll’s outcome also delivered a sobering message. Forest & Bird’s Toki expressed concern that New Zealanders may become discouraged from supporting conservation of the most threatened species as protection costs rise, particularly in combating predators like cats, rats, and stoats. “successive governments in New Zealand have cumulatively reduced investment in conservation, which is the cornerstone of New Zealand’s economic prosperity,” she stated, emphasizing the link between conservation and the country’s tourism industry. “people come here to see our native birds and the places they live in,” she added, “They’re not coming here to see shopping malls.”

The results of the Bird of the Year poll are expected to fuel further debate about conservation funding and the prioritization of native species protection in New Zealand.