The care with which the TCA is managed is clear, preserving its unique ecosystems and biodiversity, writes Gemma Langley.

Te Ipukarea Society, Muri Environment Care and the Takitumu Conservation Area have just taken on board their latest Univol Volunteer Service Abroad member, Gemma Langley. The volunteer position supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade New Zealand will now see Gemma assisting the three environmental NGOs in their respective projects for the next 10 months. The following article produced by Gemma provides an insight into her first experience exploring the protected area of the Takitumu Conservation Area (TCA), home to our native and endemic bird and plant species.

Stepping into the dense tropical forest of the Takitumu Conservation Area (TCA), I’m instantly enveloped by the rich, earthy aroma, accompanied by the trickling sound of a nearby stream. The sunlight filters through the canopy above, casting playful patterns on the forest floor. It’s an untouched island paradise!

I walk along the winding trail, navigating tree roots. The trees around me are a vibrant green, some draped in vines, others blanketed with ferns. There’s a delicate sense of balance here, with each plant playing its own role to support the forest. I hear a chippy whistling bird call, its song echoing through the trees. I spot a flash of movement: a small bird darting through the shadows of the canopy its orange plumage glows in the muted light — the endemic Kakerōri!

Continuing through the forest, the path narrows as we climb higher. The trees finally open revealing views of the turquoise lagoon and surrounding coral reefs. The contrast of the lush green hills of the TCA contrasting against the blue waters is truly breathtaking. Hiding up in the canopy is a pair of ‘Ī‘oi resting on a branch near their nest, their keen eyes glinting.

As I make my way down, a deep sense of peace settles in. The care with which the TCA is managed is clear, preserving its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. It’s a reminder of the importance of continued conservation efforts to protect these vital habitats for future generations.

A bit about the TCA

The Takitumu Conservation Area (TCA) spans 155 hectares on the southeastern side of Rarotonga. Established in 1996 by three local land-owning groups, it was primarily created to protect the endangered Kakerōri (Rarotonga Flycatcher). Through dedicated stewardship and ongoing rat control efforts, the TCA has played a pivotal role in increasing the Kakerōri population.

In addition to safeguarding this iconic species, the area also provides a sanctuary for other native birds, including the ‘Ī‘oi (Rarotonga Starling), Kūkupa (Cook Islands Fruit Dove), and Rupe (Pacific Pigeon).

The TCA is equally important for its unique flora, home to rare species such as the Rarotonga ground orchid, Pua Neinei (Rarotonga Fitchia) and the Polynesian Melicope

Visit, learn and give back

The TCA is a protected area, so not open to the public. However, you could join one of the exclusive guided tours, where expert guides lead you through varied landscapes, share insights into vital conservation initiatives, and introduce you to the unique plants and animals that call TCA home. Best of all, every dollar from your tour goes directly back into preserving the TCA – funding essential projects like rat control, track upkeep and birdlife monitoring. Call +682 55499 or email birds.cookislands@gmail.com for more information.