Wellington’s upgraded Frank Kitts Park rock revetment project is complete and providing a popular new whare for local kororā (little penguins).
The new retaining wall on Wellington’s waterfront was constructed to shield the promenade and protect the area from coastal erosion, but Wellington City Council says rehousing the kororā was always a priority.
Council’s rock revetment project manager, Joel De Boer says the team was fully committed to finishing the job on time, on budget and creating suitable habitats for the popular manu.
“It was great to be part of an engineering and resilience project where we not only protect the city from the sometimes harsh harbour environment, but also enhance the habitat for the local kororā,” said Mr Boer.
With the exception of a single bird that was briefly rescued for a quick welfare check, the Council says no other birds were handled or needed to be relocated during the construction process.
Daily detector-dog sweeps sniffed the rocks before work began each day, and if kororā were found within the site, construction was paused in that area and directed to another location for the day.
The team were able to carve 27 burrow-style homes by laying concrete culverts on their sides and embedding them within the rocks, hidden from sight yet perfectly sized for kororā to nest in.
Ecologist, Leigh Bull, notes that the culvert structures blend seamlessly into the revetment, while added planting was a ‘bonus for the local birds’.
Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika shared their pride in supporting the Frank Kitts Park rock revetment restoration, reflecting on their deep kaitiakitanga responsibilities to te taiao and to taonga species like the kororā.
“This project shows what’s possible when cultural values, ecological care, and engineering excellence work hand-in-hand. Seeing the kororā return and thrive is a tohu of success and a legacy we can all be proud of. Mā te mahi tahi, ka tutuki!” says Charlie Rudd, Kaitohutohu for Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) was also thrilled with the outcome, noting how the team managed to create a safe habitat for a species that face many challenges in Wellington’s urban environment.
The seawall has since become a bustling hub of birdlife and activity, and the kororā have moved in and are enjoying their new homes.
