Imagine a bustling harbor in New Zealand, teeming with life both above and below the water's surface. But here's the surprising part: among the boats and fishers, green turtles have been quietly making this place their home. And this is the part most people miss—these ancient mariners are far more common here than anyone realized. But here's where it gets controversial: how do we balance human activity with the urgent need to protect these gentle giants? Let’s dive into the story.
For the first time, cutting-edge drone technology has revealed just how prevalent green turtles are in Rangaunu Harbour, located about 15 kilometers north of Kaitāia. A groundbreaking study identified up to 18 individual green turtles from 27 sightings, shedding light on a phenomenon locals had long reported but scientists couldn’t confirm. Why? Because these turtles are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into the seagrass meadows where they feed. But here’s the game-changer: drones have now provided irrefutable video evidence that this harbor is a vital foraging ground for green turtles in New Zealand.
Led by fisheries scientist Dr. Brit Finucci of Earth Sciences New Zealand, the aerial survey conducted last summer captured turtles actively foraging in shallow seagrass habitats during high tides. This officially confirms what locals had been saying for years. Finucci explains, 'We now have proof that this harbor is a critical feeding area for green turtles, the only sea turtle species that resides year-round in New Zealand waters.' Juvenile turtles, in particular, rely on these shallow coastal habitats before dispersing across the Pacific. But here’s the mystery: where do they go once they leave New Zealand? Scientists still don’t have the answer.
The study’s findings underscore the urgent need to protect Rangaunu Harbour and other critical habitats for green turtles. Nina Raharuhi, a cultural and environmental monitor for nearby Haititaimarangai Marae, emphasizes the importance of coexistence. 'Kia tūpato, ata haere—be cautious and take it easy in the harbor,' she urges boaties and fishers. 'These beautiful creatures live among us, and it’s our responsibility to share the space respectfully.'
Paul Mills, a principal ranger with the Department of Conservation, highlights the broader significance of this discovery. 'Green turtles are not just iconic species; they’re indicators of coastal ecosystem health,' he says. 'From seagrass beds to fish stocks, these ecosystems are under increasing pressure from human activity and climate change. Protecting turtles means protecting the entire environment.'
Mark Erdmann, director of Re:wild Shark Conservation, was struck by how effective drones were in spotting turtles, even when they were submerged and feeding in seagrass. 'We’ve used drones extensively for manta ray surveys, but I wasn’t sure they’d work as well for turtles,' he admits. 'The potential to expand drone monitoring of honu (turtles) across northern New Zealand is tremendous.'
The study, titled 'Trialling a honu monitoring tool for iwi-led honu reporting in Te Hiku,' was a collaborative effort involving Ngāi Takato, Ngāti Kahu, Moana Whenua Trust Limited, the Department of Conservation, Conservation International, and Auckland Museum. Beyond turtles, the survey team also documented eagle rays, stingrays, and various fish species, painting a richer picture of the harbor’s biodiversity.
In a related effort to solve the mystery of where green turtles go after leaving New Zealand, two out of five rescued turtles released in Rangaunu Harbour in March were fitted with satellite tracking tags. These tags will transmit location data every time the turtles surface, providing insights for about 12 months. But here’s the question that lingers: will this data reveal new habitats in need of protection, or will it highlight areas where human activity poses a threat? What do you think—how can we best balance conservation with the needs of local communities and industries?
As we reflect on these findings, one thing is clear: the story of green turtles in Rangaunu Harbour is not just about one species; it’s about the health of our oceans and our role in safeguarding them. What steps do you think should be taken next? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this conversation going.
