Kārearea named Bird of the Year

The kārearea, also known as the New Zealand falcon, has soared to victory in the 2025 Bird of the Year competition, claiming the top spot once again. Known for its high-speed hunting and sharp eyesight, this native bird previously won in 2012 and is now part of a special group of repeat champions.

The popular competition, run by Forest and Bird, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. This year saw a record number of voters—over 75,000—showing just how much people care about New Zealand’s native birds, or manu.

Caitlin Pieta from Auto Mossa, who led the kārearea’s campaign, said it was an honour to support such a remarkable bird. Forest and Bird added that the falcon took an early lead and never let go, keeping its talons firmly on the top spot.

The competition isn’t just fun—it has a serious message. Most of the birds in this year’s top 10 are at risk of extinction, with two species having fewer than 300 left in the wild. Forest and Bird’s chief executive, Nicola Toki, said habitat loss, climate change, and introduced predators are big threats, but public support helps.

To celebrate the win, musician Troy Kingi will write a special waiata (song) for the kārearea as part of a new project called Waiata Manu. A new book is also being released to mark 20 years of the contest, filled with stories of past winners and campaign fun.

And for those still feeling the bird-loving buzz, the new Birdle NZ game—based on native bird names—will keep fans guessing and learning all year round.