King shag decline prompts 100 m reminder for Sounds visitors

Boaties and kayakers in the Marlborough Sounds are being asked to give king shag colonies space after DOC reported a 30% population decline since 2021.

In its 22 October 2026 announcement, DOC put the population at about 550 birds following several poor breeding seasons.

Keep at least 100 metres away

DOC says a 100 m buffer applies around identified colony sites under Marlborough's planning rules. These include Sentinel Rock, Duffers Reef, White Rocks, North Trio/Kuru Pongi and Blumine Island/Oruawairua. Check the full site list in the source before planning a close coastal approach.

The advice applies to small craft too. Disturbance can cause adults to leave nests and roosts, so watch from a distance rather than paddling in for a photograph.

What comes next

Research planned for next winter will examine chick survival. DOC says the decline likely has several causes; keeping vessels clear is one action visitors can take now.

Sources and credits

DOC announcement, 22 October 2026, including the full colony list. Photo: king shags at Tawhitinui Point, Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, CC BY 4.0, resized for display. Photograph date not stated.