“Orange-fronted parakeets have been thought to be extinct twice, and without extensive predator control, this vulnerable taonga species again faces a similar fate,” Verrall said. The workers would focus on predator control across 30,000 hectares of kākāriki strongholds in the two parks. Supplied Hiking NZ guides head into Poulter Valley – a kakariki stronghold. “The investment means Hiking New Zealand can keep their guides employed and expand their skills into conservation mahi like tracking, tunnel monitoring and trap setting. “Workers will also spend some of their time on wilding conifer control work.” The project would collaborate with local iwi to offer employment and training opportunities, and provide skills and experience that could lead to a career in conservation.