Kea in plantation forests – an emerging conservation opportunity

OneFortyOne is proud to share research exploring how kea use plantation forests in the Nelson Tasman region. This work, funded by OneFortyOne New Zealand Forests through the Kea Conservation Trust, demonstrates our commitment to understanding and protecting New Zealand’s native wildlife while maintaining productive forestry operations. The research provides valuable insights that are helping shape industry-wide practices for kea conservation.

This paper was first published in the New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2025, Issue N.Z.J.For. 69(4) 2025, pp Pages 30-33, Feb 2025

Abstract: New Zealand’s plantation forests present unique opportunities for the conservation of kea (Nestor notabilis), an endangered montane parrot endemic to this country. This paper examines the relationship between kea and plantation forests, particularly in the Nelson–Tasman region. It explores how plantation forestry can contribute to kea conservation while maintaining productive operations in the presence of this intelligent and often curious bird.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL PAPER: https://cms.onefortyone.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Final_Reeves.pdf.