Standard kororā nestbox with external tunnel has been used extensively throughout Aotearoa for monitoring. The standard type of wood to be used is tanalised, rough-sawn timber which lasts for decades. This type of wood can be replaced with plywood (although not recommended due to shorter lifespan) which can be a good temporary replacement for a damaged box and also easier for school groups or children to make.

This kororā nestbox has been adapted by the West Coast Penguin Trust from the standard design to include an internal tunnel. This is used to help deter unwanted species such as Weka or rodents from entering and still allows the kororā to be safe from predators. This type of nestbox is easy to transport and aids in ensuring kororā are not easily visible to humans with the lid that half opens at the back of the box.

These adapted standard nestbox designs are great to use in places where human interference is a risk to disturbance of kororā with a tamper-proof lid to prevent unwanted opening and internal tunnel so kororā aren’t easily visible to humans. The internal tunnel option is similar to the West Coast Penguin Trust adaptation and is also great for deterring predators. With durable, tanalised wood, these designs will last a long time in the field.

Nest box placement guidelines to help ensure your nest boxes are positioned safely and have the best chance of being used by kororā.