Native Animals
Nelson is home to a remarkable diversity of native animals, from birds and lizards to freshwater species and invertebrates. These species play an essential role in healthy ecosystems by pollinating plants, dispersing seeds, maintaining forests and wetlands, and contributing to the natural heritage that makes our region unique.
Native animals are also deeply connected to te ao Māori, with whakapapa linking species, landscapes, and people. Protecting these species helps safeguard the mauri of te taiao and supports the wellbeing of our communities, now and into the future.
From forests and streams to wetlands and the coastline, Nelson’s landscapes provide habitat for a wide variety of native wildlife. Below is an introduction to some of the native species you are most likely to encounter.
Native Birds
Nelson is rich with native birdlife. Common species include:
- Tūī - known for their song and iridescent feathers
- Kererū - important seed dispersers for many native trees
- Korimako (bellbird) - a key pollinator
- Riroriro (grey warbler) - often heard before seen
- Pīwakawaka (fantail) - friendly insect hunters
In our coastal and estuary areas you'll find shorebirds such as oystercatchers, banded dotterels, and godwits. Head to our Coastal and Marine page to learn more about our shorebirds.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Nelson’s warm climate provides habitat for several native species of:
- Geckos (including our own Nelson Green Gecko, only found here!)
- Skinks
These species depend on healthy habitat and protection from predators.
Freshwater Species
Our rivers and streams support:
- Tuna (longfin and shortfin eels)
- Inanga/whitebait
- Kōaro
- Kōura (freshwater crayfish)
- Mayflies, caddisflies, and damselflies
- Bullies
Many of these species rely on clean water and healthy riparian margins. Head to our Freshwater page to learn more.
Marine Species
Common marine species found in our region include:
- Marine mammals such as seals/ kekeno and occasional visiting dolphins
- Seabirds including terns, gannets, gulls, and migratory species that rely on coastal feeding grounds
- Fish species found in shallow waters and estuaries, including flounder, kahawai and whitebait species during parts of their lifecycle
- Intertidal species such as crabs, starfish, anemones, and other organisms that thrive on rocky shores and sandy beaches
Head to our Marine and Coastal Animals page to learn more.
Invertebrates
Often overlooked, invertebrates are vital to ecosystem health:
- Wētā
- Native bees
- Butterflies and moths
- Stick insects
These species help with pollination, nutrient cycling, and food webs.
Threats to Native Animals
Many species are under pressure from:
- Predators such as rats, stoats, weasels, possums, and feral cats
- Habitat loss or degradation
- Pollution and declining water quality
- Disturbance of nesting areas, especially for shorebirds and inanga
- Invasive weeds that reduce habitat quality
- Climate change altering food sources and shelter availability
Caring for natural habitats and reducing predator numbers are key steps in protecting native wildlife.
What We're Doing
Nelson City Council supports the protection of native animals through:
- Predator control through Nelson Nature, Halo and Community Groups
- Monitoring native bird populations
- Protection of inanga spawning sites
- Community events to help raise awareness and education
- Riparian and coastal restoration planting
- Habitat enhancement for native birds and other wildlife
- Marine and coastal biodiversity projects
- Education through Enviroschools and Community events.
- Support for citizen science, including iNaturalist and BioBlitz events
- Environmental Grants for landowners and community groups
This work helps restore habitat and reduce threats across the region.
What You Can Do
There are many practical ways to help native animals thrive:
- Trap rats, stoats, and possums in your backyard
- Join a community pest control or restoration group
- Keep cats indoors at night
- Keep dogs on‑lead where birds are nesting
- Plant native trees and shrubs that provide food and shelter
- Build a wētā hotel or lizard habitat
- Remove invasive weeds
- Protect coastal nesting birds by giving them space
- Report wildlife sightings on iNaturalist
- Take part in the NZ Garden Bird Survey
Small, everyday actions can make a big difference.
Resources & Useful Links
Species information
- iNaturalist for identifying
- DOC Native Species
- NZ Herpetological Society
- NZ Freshwater Fish Database NIWA
Citizen Science and Monitoring
Restoration & Wildlife Support
Watch: Animated videos of the Nelson green gecko
See the Nelson green gecko brought to life in these short animations, celebrating one of our region’s most distinctive native reptiles.
