High-flying momentum behind falcon

The Kārearea Falcon Trust has marked a week of dual celebrations, with the native falcon winning Forest and Bird’s Bird of the Year and the release of rehabilitated bird Anahera back into the Marlborough landscape.

The kārearea was announced as winner of Bird of the Year for the second time on Monday. By Wednesday, Anahera — a juvenile female that came into the trust’s care with a broken wing and collarbone — was released at Tempello Farm following months of rehabilitation.

Trust manager Holly Turner says the timing has brought extra attention to the work being done locally. “We are absolutely thrilled that the kārearea has been named New Zealand’s Bird of the Year for 2025.

This recognition is not just a win for this remarkable endemic falcon, it’s a win for conservation across New Zealand, and especially here in Marlborough, where these birds are a cherished part of our natural heritage.”

She says Anahera’s release reflects both recovery and resilience. “Watching her soar again over the hills of Tempello Station, thanks to the support of landowners like Jo Grigg, is a reminder of what’s possible when communities, conservationists, and volunteers come together.”

Since 2008, the trust has been running breeding, rehabilitation, and education programmes, helping both wild and injured falcons.

“Generations of local children have grown up meeting our advocacy falcons through the school programme, learning to recognise these fierce birds and calling us when one is found injured so it can be helped,” Holly says.

Anahera’s return near where she was originally found is expected to boost her chances of survival. “She made a really strong first flight, which is promising for her future in the wild.”

Although kārearea are still classified as threatened, Holly says Marlborough is fortunate to have healthy populations across the Wairau Valley, the Sounds, Whites Bay and Rārangi, with many reports from forestry workers in the Richmond Ranges.

“The enthusiasm around Bird of the Year helps spark passion for the species and further supports on-the-ground conservation. We’re proud of the mahi that keeps these birds part of Marlborough’s story, and we hope more people continue to fall in love with them.”