Kārearea enjoys the taste of tūturuatu on Mana Island
A hungry kārearea played a part in a failed attempt to establish a colony of critically endangered shore birds on Mana Island.
In February the Department of Conservation translocated 29 juvenile tūturuatu, or shore plovers, to Mana, off Porirua, however in July it was reported all 29 birds had vanished. Some were discovered on the mainland, recaptured and placed back on the island with more captive-bred plovers.
Last month it was discovered some had ended up as lunch for a resident kārearea or New Zealand falcon. Others would have been susceptible to being gobbled up by cats, rats and stoats on the mainland.
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.6% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.