Community Steps Up To Help Pūteketeke
There’s some exciting news on Lake Dunstan — the quirky and very vulnerable pūteketeke are nesting again, and our community is playing a key role in supporting their return.
As part of Predator Free Cromwell’s Growing Kaitiakitanga programme, an initiative is underway to help pūteketeke safely breed on our lake. These beautiful birds are particularly vulnerable, and our fluctuating lake levels can make nesting especially challenging.
Pūteketeke build their nests on the water’s edge, leaving them exposed to changing lake levels, wave action and disturbance. Floating nesting platforms rise and fall with the lake, providing a more stable and safer place for birds to nest and raise their young.
A true community effort
This project has been made possible through the generosity and care of people in our community — and beyond. The wonderful team at the Cromwell Menz Shed have built specially designed nesting platforms from found, upcycled and donated materials for community groups to use.
Nulon has generously donated pool noodles, which are being used as floats to keep the platforms stable. These noodles are made from a non-toxic polyethylene that is less likely to break down than cheaper alternatives, and with an annual check-and-replace system in place, we’re also helping to keep our lake water healthy.
Local Brownies have been learning about pūteketeke and have now completed their own nesting platform — built by the Menz Shed — which they will help launch and care for. This is a wonderful example of young kaitiaki in action.
Puteketeke are now nesting on Lake Dunstan, thanks to community efforts. Photo credit Stu Taylor
What you might see on the lake
You may notice a number of nesting platforms on the lake, often positioned close to shore. These locations are carefully chosen to give the birds the best chance of success.
If you see a platform, please enjoy it from a distance. Getting too close can cause pūteketeke to abandon their nest, particularly during the early stages of breeding.
Dogs, in particular, can be very frightening for nesting birds. If you’re out walking near the lake, please keep dogs on a lead and well away from any platforms.
A hopeful sign for the future
We’re delighted to share that a pair of pūteketeke are currently nesting on one of the platforms, and we’re hoping to see chicks very soon. Pūteketeke chicks are instantly recognisable — stripey little fluff balls that ride on their parents’ backs and can swim and dive from the moment they are born.
These floating platforms are a practical, community-led way to support the return of this special species to Lake Dunstan. By giving them space and care, we can all play a part in helping pūteketeke thrive once again.
Want to help?
Our Growing Kaitiakitanga programme is designed for all ages - pre-school to adult. Everyone can be part of learning and doing something exciting for our environment. If your school, pre-school, community group, or group of neighbours want to find out more, email the team at predatorfreecromwell@gmail.com or send us a message here.