Auckland’s critically threatened reef heron (matuku moana) is in the spotlight after a survey revealed concerning numbers of the birds in the inner Hauraki Gulf.
As part of their work to protect the biodiversity of bird species in the Auckland region, Auckland Council’s Environmental Services team, alongside a dedicated network of bird experts, boaties and volunteer conservationists, surveyed some of the likely key locations for a reef heron across the region between December 2024 and February 2025.
While Auckland is likely a national stronghold for these birds, they have not been monitored previously. The team’s mission was to uncover the secretive nesting habits of the elusive species and assess its population health.
A total of just 10 nests were identified, with sightings of two juveniles and three lone birds, where nationally there are estimated to be between 300-500 birds.
Chair of Auckland Council’s Planning, Environment and Parks Committee, Councillor Richard Hills says the survey findings reinforce the need to ramp up protection efforts.
“The reef heron is a fascinating and rare bird that has quietly existed on our shores for centuries. With numbers this low, every nest and every bird count. Protecting them from human disturbance and predators is crucial if we want to ensure their survival for future generations,” he said.
Reef herons, often mistaken for their more common white-faced relatives, prefer rocky shorelines where they stealthily hunt small crustaceans and fish. They are rarely seen, avoiding humans and nesting in secluded caves, rock crevices, and under coastal pōhutukawa trees.
Disturbance from boats, people, and pest species like cats and stoats have likely contributed to their decline, forcing them to retreat to small offshore islands.
Auckland Council’s Regional Biodiversity Advisor, Jacinda Woolly notes that while the discovery of nine birds in the Manukau Harbour is encouraging, the low numbers in the inner Hauraki Gulf is concerning.
“These birds were once more commonly seen along our coastlines, but habitat loss, increasing human activity, and introduced predators have pushed them into hiding,” Ms Woolly says.
“The fact that we found four nests in the Manukau suggests there are still some areas where they can thrive, but we need to do more to protect their habitats.”
The findings from the survey will be used by Auckland Council to inform targeted protection measures, such as pest control, signage to reduce human disturbance, and advocacy for safeguarding critical nesting sites.
With their population so precariously low, Auckland Council asks people to respect the birds’ habitats. Simple actions – such as keeping a safe distance if you see one, controlling pets near coastal areas and always following the relevant dog rules (especially on our pest-free islands), and supporting conservation initiatives can make a significant difference.
“The reef heron is a taonga of our coastal environment,” says Councillor Hills.
“If we act now, we can give them the best chance of survival.”
For more information on the species click here.
