Te Korowai o Waiheke is leading a project of national and international significance with a vision of being: the world's first predator-free urban island, a haven for flourishing wildlife, enriching the lives of current and future generations. The initiative is a bold, community-driven effort to transform Waiheke Island into a sanctuary where native wildlife can not only survive, but thrive.

The need for this initiative stems from the devastating impact of invasive predators, particularly stoats, which have decimated our native species. The unique and fragile biodiversity of Waiheke Island, a natural treasure so close to New Zealand's largest city, has been under constant threat. Species like the kākā, tūturuatu (dotterel), and many others have struggled to survive and flourish in an environment where their eggs, chicks, and even adults are easy prey for stoats. 

Our flagship effort, the island-wide stoat eradication project, has been in operation since 2020. The comprehensive network of traps, combined with incredible community support, has achieved remarkable success and removed 257 stoats 

This hard work is paying off, with recent bird counts showing a significant 76% increase in native birds counted since 2020, including a phenomenal 388% increase in kākā counted - a key indicator species of low stoat numbers. The work also paved the way for a historic moment—the reintroduction of kiwi to Waiheke Island in May 2025. This milestone is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of our work and the community's commitment. Where stoats aren’t controlled, 95% of chicks will not survive.

Waiheke is located in the Hauraki Gulf - an area of Global Significance for Seabirds, with the highest proportion of endemic species worldwide and a phenomenal 20% of the world's seabirds passing through. Our work will make the Gulf a safer place for all seabirds