Outside in Aotearoa
What's happening outdoors around New Zealand. Track updates, mountain news and good reasons to get out there.
DOC says five ferret traps were damaged in Tongariro Forest. What visitors should know and how to report damage without disturbing conservation equipment.
Read more... : Tongariro kiwi protection hit by trap vandalismWallaby searches run near Lake Ōhau and Quailburn from 5–23 October 2026. Alps 2 Ocean riders should follow warning signs and contractor directions.
Read more... : Lake Ōhau wallaby searches: what Alps 2 Ocean riders need to knowDOC’s Tongariro fire-recovery update includes an open day in Raurimu on 16 October, restoration work and practical advice for visitors.
Read more... : Tongariro fire recovery: public open day on 16 OctoberBuild a Check, Clean, Dry routine for water-contact gear and check current treatment instructions before moving between waterways.
Read more... : Check, Clean, Dry: protect freshwater between adventuresClean footwear and equipment properly around kauri, use every hygiene station and respect track closures and boardwalks.
Read more... : Walking near kauri: clean footwear properly at the trackDOC has confirmed toxoplasmosis killed a pregnant Hector’s dolphin found at Oreti Beach, highlighting a threat carried from land into coastal waters.
Read more... : Oreti Beach dolphin death highlights a land-to-sea wildlife threatEnvironment Canterbury has announced $20,000 for BRaid’s work supporting threatened braided-river birds, including wrybill and black-fronted tern.
Read more... : Canterbury river birds get a $20,000 funding boost through BRaidDOC reports more than 285 orange-fronted parakeets counted on one survey day at Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, an encouraging result for the rare bird.
Read more... : Nelson survey brings encouraging news for kākāriki karakaSix wildlife facilities will share $150,000 for bird-flu surveillance and care. Know who to call if you find sick or dead birds outdoors.
Read more... : Wildlife carers receive funding for bird-flu surveillanceDOC reports higher bat activity around the Heaphy Track in 2026 than in 2018. The monitoring measures bat passes, not a count of individual bats.
Read more... : Heaphy bat monitoring records a rise in activityDOC’s September count puts the kākāpō population at 325, including 90 chicks from the season. It’s a milestone, with major recovery work still ahead.
Read more... : Kākāpō population reaches 325 after a strong breeding seasonDOC has reported a whio fatally injured by fishing line on the Tongariro River. Keep casts clear of birds and remove discarded line and hooks.
Read more... : Tongariro whio death prompts a reminder to take fishing line home
