New Zealand falconKārearea

Conservation status
In serious trouble

Famous for fronting the $20 note, kārearea can clock 230km/h and can catch prey mid-flight. They have even adapted to hunt within the dense New Zealand forests. Is this aerial acrobat going to smash the competition this year?

Campaign Manager

Auto Mossa

Auto Mossa

We’re AUTO MOSSA, proud champions of the Kārearea for Forest & Bird's Bird of the Year 2025! 

Our team might be small, but we punch above our weight, just like the Kārearea itself. 

Often mistaken for the more common swamp harrier, the Kārearea is New Zealand’s only endemic falcon; a true aerial predator capable of flying up to 100 km/h. A master of agility, precision, and persistence, surviving in fragmented habitats and facing increasing threats from land development, predators, and human interference. 

We believe it’s time the Kārearea gets the recognition it deserves. As advocates for native species and fans of feathered underdogs, our campaign is all about raising awareness of this extraordinary falcon’s challenges and celebrating its fierce spirit. Follow our updates, share the love, and vote Kārearea to give this swift flyer the spotlight it deserves! 

#VoteKarearea #BirdOfTheYear #TeamFalcon #ForestAndBird #KāreareaChampion #NZWildlife #AUTOMOSSA

New Zealand falcon

Photo: Craig McKenzie