Conservation focus in Fiordland National Park

In 2000, there were estimated to be up to 300 mohua in the area. Photo / James Reardon

The Conservation Minister says a new partnership should help protect native birds and threatened wetlands in one of New Zealand's most famous national parks.

Maggie Barry says the initiative involving the Department of Conservation and Transpower would lead to conservation work in Fiordland National Park.

She said the partnership was worth $100,000 over five years, and would focus on the Borland-Grebe Valley area, where the national grid operator had transmission lines.

"The Borland-Grebe is an important habitat for the rare mohua/yellowhead, which is now restricted to only a few sites on the mainland and pest-free islands," Ms Barry said.

"In 2000, there were estimated to be up to 300 mohua in the area, and the valley is also believed to be a home for southern tokoeka kiwi and native bats."

The Minister said the Grebe Valley was also known for outstanding wetlands containing native wildlife and plant species such as the small native buttercup Ranunculus ternatifolius and tufted hair grass.

Raewyn Moss of Transpower said the company was happy to be working with the Department of Conservation.

"Fiordland National Park is of importance to all of New Zealand and we're very much aware of that responsibility every time we visit our assets located within the Borland and Grebe Valley areas. So we are very keen to work with DOC to see these areas become a haven for New Zealand's native species."