The renowned karearea, or NZ falcon, on our $20 note is about to gain a new flock of support from around the country, including Northland, this coming conservation week.
From October 16-20, 10,000 students will become "Wingspan Warriors" as schools take part in the "Healthy Forests" lesson initiative developed by Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre and Kleenex® Tissues.
Northland schools involved in the conservation programme taking place later this month are Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Taumarere and Karetu School.
The initiative is designed to involve communities in the conservation of the threatened and protected native bird. It also aims at raising the awareness and profile of the endangered species in schools.
Only 25 per cent of karearea chicks survive for more than a year and the founder and executive director of Wingspan, Debbie Stewart, said: "Karearea are NZ's panda bear", the conservation icon that engages people to care.
