The native Kererū are called the gardeners of the sky because of the vital role they play in keeping our forests alive and thriving.
Considered a taonga to the Māori people, the kererū was historically a major food source.
Sadly, habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and egg thieves like cats, possums, rats and stoats means the native pigeon is in decline and hunting is illegal.
But could putting in place a breeding programme which would allow the eating of Kererū again actually save them?
Dr Madeline Shelling of Ngāti Porou holds a Bachelor of Science in geography and environmental management, as well as a PhD in Māori health from the University of Auckland and joins Emile Donovan.
The New Zealand kererū Photo: CC 4.0 International license / Judi Lapsley Miller
