March is Whio Awareness Month, a time to celebrate and protect one of New Zealand’s most unique and endangered birds — the whio, or blue duck (Hymenolaimus malacorhynchos). Endemic to Aotearoa and featured on our $10 banknote, the whio is a taonga species and an important indicator of healthy rivers.

Sadly, with fewer than 3,000 birds left in the wild, urgent conservation efforts are needed to secure their future.

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Why the Whio Matters

Unlike other ducks, whio are true river specialists. They thrive in clean, fast-flowing, stony-bottomed streams, making their presence a sign of pristine waterways. Their diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates scraped from river rocks with their specially adapted bills.

The whio’s unique traits include:

• Blue-grey plumage with a speckled chestnut breast.

• Soft black bill flaps that protect the beak while scraping for food.

• Forward-facing yellow eyes for sharp vision in fast currents.

• Distinctive calls: males whistle “fee-o, fee-o,” while females growl in a rattly tone.

Whio pairs are monogamous and highly territorial, often remaining in the same stretch of river for life.

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Ōwhango Alive and the Whio

Ōwhango Alive is a dedicated volunteer group working to protect and restore the Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve, Whakapapa River, and Ōwhango village habitats. Their mission directly supports the survival of the whio and other native species.

Key achievements include:

• Trapping over 10,000 predators such as stoats and rats.

• Supporting a noticeable resurgence of native birdlife.

• Maintaining a safer environment for vulnerable whio populations.

Community-driven initiatives like Ōwhango Alive show how local action can have national impact.