This year, East Coast Protection Group joined the spirited fun of Bird of the Year 2025 by throwing our support behind the black-fronted tern/tarapirohe. Our campaign had a threefold purpose: to shine a light on this striking yet endangered river-nesting bird, to share our wider mission of protecting the Limestone Coast, and to spark conversations about the precious native birds that call Aotearoa home.
The tarapirohe is sometimes called the “sea swallow” for its graceful flight and sharp, darting movements. Sadly, it is one of New Zealand’s most threatened birds, with only 5,000–10,000 individuals remaining. These terns breed along braided rivers in the South Island, where they face constant threats from predators, floods, and habitat loss, and overwinter on our own Limestone Coast. Raising their profile is critical if they are to survive.
We set ourselves a lofty goal — “5,000 votes for 5,000 birds” — and rallied support from our community. With the help of Marlborough Tramping Club, Marlborough Forest & Bird, Waikawa Boating Club, and many passionate individuals, we kept the campaign buzzing for three weeks. Our messages were sometimes lighthearted, sometimes sobering, but always focused on building care for the tarapirohe.
And the result? An incredible 2,213 votes for our wee sea swallow! While short of our ambitious target, this number is a testament to the power of community when we come together for nature. Every vote cast represents a conversation sparked, a new person learning about the tarapirohe, and a stronger voice for protecting Marlborough’s wild places.
The campaign may be over, but the mahi continues. By raising awareness of this delicate bird and its habitat, we’ve taken another step towards ensuring that the call of the tarapirohe remains part of Aotearoa’s natural chorus for generations to come.
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