The South Canterbury Pekapeka - Long Tail Bat Project
Client - Port Blakely Forestry NZ
Location - Geraldine, South Canterbury
Project Date - 2022 - Ongoing
Who We Worked With - Department of Conservation (DoC), Environment Canterbury (ECan), Timaru District Council (TDC), Te Runanga o Arowhenua, Port Blakely, Forest and Bird, High Country Contracting, and Toitu te Whenua (LINZ)
Conserving the Critically Endangered Pekapeka: Zolve Environmental’s Vital Role in South Canterbury
The long-tailed bat (Pekapeka), classified as Threatened - Nationally Critical within the New Zealand Threat Classification System (NZTCS), is one of New Zealand’s most endangered species, with the South Canterbury colony being particularly fragile, consisting of approximately 300 breeding females. Zolve Environmental plays a crucial role in conserving this vital species, especially within the Raincliff and Maori Gully colonies, which we manage on behalf of Port Blakely NZ Forestry.
Our involvement includes conducting annual population monitoring in collaboration with the Department of Conservation (DOC), planning and implementing targeted pest control programs, and providing expert advice and oversight during tree harvesting operations to ensure minimal impact on the Pekapeka. Additionally, we lead education and awareness programs aimed at engaging the community and fostering a deeper understanding of Pekapeka conservation.
Beyond our work with Port Blakely, Zolve Environmental also supports DOC with broader Pekapeka conservation efforts. This includes assisting with general population monitoring, conducting thermal monitoring of artificial roost sites near Pleasant Point, and providing assessments and advice for tree harvesting operations in areas known to be inhabited by Pekapeka.
A key achievement of Zolve Environmental has been the development of the South Canterbury Pekapeka Strategy, a collaborative effort involving DOC, ECAN, Timaru District Council, Iwi, Port Blakely, Forest and Bird, High Country Contracting, and LINZ. This strategy aligns the efforts of various stakeholders, ensuring that resources are used effectively to maximize conservation outcomes for the Pekapeka.
As part of the strategy's development, we conducted a comprehensive review of the stakeholder group, with the aim of enhancing strategic alignment and securing long-term organizational commitment to the conservation program. This review led to improved governance structures and the creation of a terms of reference for the participants. The clarity and focus provided by this strategy are now driving more effective conservation efforts, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the Pekapeka population in South Canterbury.
