Conserving our Natural Treasures
As a far-off island nation, New Zealand has a unique natural environment that is home to many plants and animals found nowhere else on earth. According to the Department of Conservation, approximately 80% of New Zealand's trees, ferns and flowering plants, 25% of its bird species and 100% of its reptiles are endemic (meaning that they are found only in this country).
With very few predator species, many birds and animals did not develop natural defenses. For example, many bird species (such as the Kiwi) were flightless or poor at flying.
New Zealand was one of the last places on earth settled by people. When humans first arrived, the native inhabitants lacked any fear of humans. Pioneers exploring untouched parts of the country in the nineteenth century described the phenomenon of birds that would not fly away even when being hunted.
Through hunting and the introduction of carnivorous species such as rats, cats and stoats, populations of native birds and animals went into a steep decline. A reduction of natural habitat as human populations extended added to the pressure and many native species are now endangered.
In recent times, New Zealand has embarked on conservation campaigns that range from protecting remaining native forests, creating sanctuaries on off-shore islands and breeding endangered species in captivity for release back into the wild.
Visitors to New Zealand can meet some of the nation's precious natural treasures and learn more about the measures being taken to protect them at wildlife sanctuaries and breeding centres around the country.