Issue 4 | Finding Franklin Bats
Kia ora! It feels like we’re well overdue for an update! What can we say, this past season was nothing short of…
Read more →He Taonga tePekapeka
A nonprofit initiative dedicated to protecting Aotearoa's endemic native bat species, and the taiao it calls home.
About the Project
The pekapeka, Aotearoa's only surviving native land mammal, faces extinction from predator pressure and habitat loss. We work alongside communities, researchers, local conservation organisations and iwi to monitor populations, restore roost habitat, create awareness and build lasting protection networks across the motu.
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Our Mission
To give communities the knowledge, tools and connection to protect the pekapeka — Aotearoa's only surviving native land mammal
What We Do
How We Make an Impact
Monitor
By monitoring multiple colonies of pekapeka tou roa, we gain valuable insights into their populations, habits, and habitats, helping us develop more effective strategies to protect them.
Restore
Through collaboration with landowners, local conservation organisations, and iwi, we provide guidance on predator control and habitat management to support the forest corridors that pekapeka rely on.
Educate
We connect with communities through school visits, events, and educational resources, inspiring New Zealanders to learn about pekapeka and play a role in their protection.
Conservation in Numbers
The challenge is real.
The challenge is real.
So is the progress.
2
Native bat species remaining in Aotearoa
Both nationally threatened — the pekapeka-tou-roa and pekapeka-tou-poto
4+
Active roost sites monitored
After three seasons of tracking in the Franklin area, our pekapeka are finally starting to reveal their secrets. We're getting a much clearer picture of how they navigate and thrive in fragmented habitats.
40+
Community events held
Creating awareness and building skills within our communities is a big part of our kaupapa. We run volunteer training, community workshops, school visits, and community bat walks to help people connect with and learn about our incredible pekapeka. Keep your eyes peeled for our upcoming events, we'd love to see you there!
Take Action
Get involved
Every contribution — whether time, money or voice — makes pekapeka conservation possible.
Donate
Fund monitoring equipment, habitat restoration and community outreach programmes that protect pekapeka.
Support the mahi →Volunteer
Join a local monitoring team, help at community events, or assist with habitat restoration days across the motu.
Join a team →Stay Informed
Get field updates, research findings and event invitations delivered to your inbox each season.
Sign up for updates →
Latest
Field Notes
All field notes →
Supported by
Ecoquest
Auckland Council
Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua
Predator Free Franklin
Pest Free South Auckland
Beautification Trust