New Zealand Prepared by

recovery plan South Island saddlebacks (tieke) were widely distributed over the South and Stewart Islands in the 19th century. Their rapid decline was documented during the latter 19th century. Following a rodent invasion on their sole remaining island habitat South Island saddlebacks were under threat of immediate extinction. This was thwarted by prompt translocations of remaining birds to nearby predator-free islands. This plan outlines conservation goals and suggests options for continuing the recovery of this subspecies. Recovery is to be achieved through a programme of island habitat restoration and saddleback translocations. Eradication of rodents and weka is promoted by this plan, in some instances this plan suggests that discussions be held with the local Iwi to determine the appropriateness of these eradications. Saddlebacks are to be introduced or re-introduced to a number of islands around the South Island coast. When recovery has been achieved South Island saddleback populations may be established on up to 26 islands with a total of about 4000 individuals. At this population level they will not be ranked as threatened, but be classified as rare and no longer requiring a programme of on-going intensive conservation management. Recovery management proposed in this plan will be undertaken jointly by Department of Conservation staff, Iwi representatives and members of the public. LONG TERM GOAL OF THIS RECOVERY PROGRAMME: To maintain and enhance the existing populations of South Island saddleback, and to improve the conservation status of the subspecies from endangered to rare through the re-establishment of four former populations and the establishment of up to 12 new populations by the year 2020