Ahhhh...that's better!

Surveying his territory

He's a non-stop whistler!

One less Stoat..yee ha!

Operation blue duck

Checking the Trapline

Blue Duck Conservation

Blue Duck Lodge has been named in recognition of the number of Blue Ducks that inhabit the Retaruke and Kaiwhakauka Rivers.

The Blue Duck, or Whio as it is known in Maori, is an endangered species and Dan is committed to helping to preserve this native fowl. An environmental project, which involves raising public awareness of the plight of New Zealand's native Blue Duck and surveying the Retaruke and Kaiwhakauka ducks, is undertaken every year. Dan has started a large-scale predator trapping and habitat enhancement project for the Whio, Kiwi and all other natives of Retaruke. Volunteer workers are sometimes required.

The rare Blue Ducks are observed while kayaking down the Retaruke River or walking along the Kaiwhakauka track above the waterfall.