"A pest control operation took place in the Mokaihaha Ecological Area during 2015 to benefit the kokako population and wider ecosystem. Our post-operation monitoring tracked 1.1% possums and no rats, which should see kokako numbers increase in 2016."
"After the operation, we took local iwi members into the bush to listen to kōkako and see for themselves what the operation was protecting."
Miss Patterson said the community conservation groups represented at the hui are dedicated to protecting and restoring New Zealand's native species and DOC is committed to supporting the groups to protect and restore native species.
"The Department has limited resources and we simply can't achieve our goals without contributions from the community," she said.
Volunteers considering conservation volunteer work are encouraged to join a community conservation group. Details are available from www.doc.govt.nz.