Birds
Nelson is home to a range of native bird species, some of which are classified as endangered or threatened. Our work to restore habitat and control pests, as well as support for the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary - a pest-proof haven on the outskirts of Nelson - aims to support species recovery and survival. You can help by planting bird-friendly native plants in your garden or on your property.
Forest and garden birds found in Nelson include:
- Kakariki
- Tui
- South Island robin
- Rifleman
- Brown Creeper
- Korimako/bellbird
- Kaka
- Kereru/New Zealand pigeon
- Karearea/New Zealand falcon
- Weka
- Shining cuckoo
- Morepork
The elusive South Island Kōkakowas listed as extinct until 2013, when it was reclassified as 'data deficient' by the Department of Conservation. To find out more, or report a suspected sighting, go to the South Island Kokako webpage
For more information on forest habitats, visit our Halo page
Coastal birds in the Nelson region:
- Bar-tailed godwit
- Moho pererū/banded rail
- NZ dotterel
- Pied shag
- Little blue penguin
- Variable oystercatcher
- Red-billed gull
- White-fronted tern
- Fernbird
For information on coastal habitats, visit our Coast page
Birds found in the Dun Mountain, Maitai and Roding water reserves include species now rare in the Nelson Region:
Visit our Dun Mountain Page for more information
