Leucistic Tūī Sightings Reflect Success of Ōhiwa Headland Conservation Efforts

The recent observation of a rare, leucistic tūī in the Waiotahe area of the Eastern Bay of Plenty has drawn public attention. This bird exhibits leucism, a genetic condition causing partial pigment loss in feathers, which is distinct from albinism due to the presence of some pigment and typically normal eye coloration. Researchers have confirmed the presence of at least three such leucistic tūī in the area, an occurrence interpreted as a positive indicator of successful genetic protection within this specific habitat.

The observation of leucistic tūī suggests a robust local gene pool capable of expressing this trait, which has been documented in the Ōhiwa Harbour region for more than a decade, with records potentially extending back to 2009. This flourishing presence is directly linked to sustained conservation work managed by the Ōhiwa Headland Sanctuary Trust, which was established in August 2016. The Trust executes rigorous pest-trapping operations across 1900 hectares of coastal bush near Ōpōtiki, an effort supported by community backing.

This dedicated work has yielded substantial ecological returns, evidenced by the return and population increase of several native species, including previously rare bellbirds, and the re-establishment of native falcons and little blue penguins. Predator control statistics for the 2024-2025 year alone document the scale of commitment, including the removal of 598 rats, 242 possums, and 44 weasels. This reduction in introduced predators has facilitated the regeneration of native tree canopies, notably the Kohekohe (Dysoxylum spectabile).

The recovery of Kohekohe is significant as its flowers, which bloom in early winter and fruit in alternate years, provide a vital nectar source for nectar-feeding birds like the tūī. The recovery of this food source is attributed to the collaborative efforts between the Trust and local Iwi partners, including Whakatōhea and Te Ūpokorehe, directly supporting thriving birdlife. Furthermore, the return of seabirds is noted, with over 27 grey-faced petrel burrows discovered, indicating an ecosystem approaching its historical state.

The Ōhiwa Headland Sanctuary Trust, which manages reserves including Pataua Island Scientific Reserve, secured a $13,000 grant from Trust Horizon in 2024 to deploy 25 AT220 NZ AutoTraps in difficult terrain. This landscape-scale restoration commitment involves approximately 165 residents on the Headland and 140 supportive buffer properties, underscoring a collective focus on ecological restoration within the Ōhiwa community.