Kākāpō numbers rising as breeding conditions improve for 2026

Thursday 20 November 2025 · 5 outlets · 2 reports · updated Thu 20 Nov 2025, 8:15am

In this story Auckland Zoo

Kākāpō populations are recovering quickly, leading to a shortage of pest-free islands for the birds. Experts suggest 2026 could see a significant leap in the breeding programme due to an upcoming mast year for rimu trees.

How they headlined it

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5am8:15am

1. NewsroomThu 20 Nov 2025, 5:00am

   Kākāpō might not be the bird of the year, but this is the year of the kākāpō (opens in new tab)

   Also on RNZ (opens in new tab)

2. The Post via RNZThu 20 Nov 2025, 8:15am

   Kākāpō might not be bird of the year, but next year could be their year (opens in new tab)

   Also on Waikato Times (opens in new tab), The Press (opens in new tab)