Nelson Tasman residents are being asked to step outside, look up, and take stock of the birds in their backyard as the New Zealand Garden Bird Survey marks its 20th year.
Running from Saturday, 27 June to Sunday, 5 July 2026, the nationwide survey calls on people to spend just one hour counting the birds they see or hear, contributing to one of the country’s most important long-term biodiversity datasets.
Participants choose a spot and record their sightings during a single hour, using a tally sheet and online bird identification tools to help distinguish between species.
Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao, has led the study since 2007, building up a long-term picture of birdlife in both urban and rural environments.
The survey is the only one of its kind in New Zealand, providing valuable data for policy makers, scientists, bird enthusiasts and organisations interested in the health of garden bird populations.
Researchers use the results to understand how birds are coping with environmental challenges, including climate change, and to track changes in populations over time.
More than 77,000 surveys have been completed to date by individuals, schools and community groups across the country, creating a detailed national dataset.
Those taking part can submit their results through the survey website and use online tools to help identify birds seen or heard during their count.
For more information or to take part, visit Garden Bird Survey website.
