Takahē Released into the Rees Valley for a Full Circle Moment

The Rees Valley has welcomed some very special new residents – eighteen takahē, one of Aotearoa’s most treasured native birds. This remarkable milestone is the culmination of a significant conservation project made possible by RealNZ’s annual Conservation Ball.

RealNZ Conservation Ball

Funds raised from the 2024 Conservation Ball, held at Walter Peak in September, contributed more than $150,000 to support the translocation of takahē into the Rees Valley. In collaboration with the Southern Lakes Sanctuary, the Department of Conservation, Ngāi Tahu, and other conservation partners, the funds have helped protect the valley from predators, creating a safer habitat for native species to flourish.

A Pivotal Moment for Conservation

The takahē release is a big step for the Southern Lakes region’s conservation efforts. It represents years of dedication from conservation teams and community partners. RealNZ CEO Dave Beeche says this project is a proud reflection of RealNZ’s commitment to conservation. 

“RealNZ’s purpose is to help the world fall in love with conservation. Our yearly Conservation Ball is a fantastic way for our community and partners to support vital conservation work across Aotearoa,” says Beeche. “Seeing this taonga species return to the Rees Valley is an incredible result – it reflects the hard work and passion of so many people.” 

Other Conservation Ball Success Stories

This isn’t the only major milestone supported by the Conservation Ball. Funds raised from the 2023 Ball are also coming to fruition, with the first pairs of kākāriki karaka set to be translocated to Pukunui Anchor Island later this month. That event raised an impressive $175,000 to aid the recovery of this critically endangered parrot. 

RealNZ’s conservation work has also been recognised on a national stage. The company recently received the Environment Award and was named Supreme Tourism Business of the Year at the 2024 TIA Awards. Beeche says these accolades reflect the strength of RealNZ’s partnerships and the dedication of its team. 

“Partnering with DOC and other organisations allows us to support critical conservation projects in the lower South Island. Whether it’s through daily predator control or fundraising events like the Conservation Ball, conservation is at the heart of everything we do at RealNZ,” Beeche adds. 

RealNZ is proud to support conservation efforts that enable native species like takahē to thrive. Find out more about RealNZ’s conservation work here.