We have developed this special new section on our Takahe website because we know that may of our young Takahe enthusiasts are keen to learn what Takahe get up to across the year. Who better to answer your questions than Phil Tisch who has been head of the Department of Conservation’s Takahe Recovery programme for close to 3 years. Phil is an expert on ’the Life of a Takahe’ and he is happy to answer your questions.

Phil is based at the DOC offices in Te Anau but he also  oversees what happens at the Takahe island breeding sites  which include Maud, Mana, Kapiti and Tiri Tiri Matangi. Altogether Phil has 15 people on his Takahe Recovery team who all contribute towards saving this special flightless species.

Phil can often be seen cycling around Te Anau where he lives with his wife Chrissie who also works with DOC. According to Phil working with Takahe is one of the best jobs in the world because you not only get to save endangered species but you get to meet amazing people!