Ngutukākā – new hope for forest treasure kākābeak

Authors: Marie Taylor, James Powrie
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2024, Issue N.Z.J.For. 69(2) 2024, pp Pages 26-30, Aug 2024
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Kākābeak (aka ngutukaka) numbers are rapidly declining in the wild. This paper looks at this critically threatened plant and how restoration projects aim to turn the situation around and keep this species viable. It also outlines how forestry companies, councils, restoration entities and Māori landowners are joining forces to regenerate kākābeak in areas where it is being decimated, especially by goats and deer. The paper also looks at how wild sourced seeds and cuttings are being produced and distributed, via the Plant Hawke’s Bay nursery and the Urban Kākābeak Project. This is with the aim of preserving genetic diversity and helping to regenerate the plant in both urban strongholds and many forest areas.

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