The impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle on North Island ecosanctuaries

The direct impacts of tropical cyclones on species and ecosystems have been widely studied, but their indirect impacts via damage to conservation infrastructure have been largely overlooked. New Zealand ecosanctuaries are large-scale conservation projects that are closely connected to local communities, provide a vital refuge for local and threatened native biodiversity, and represent a subset of the national conservation infrastructure. Cyclone Gabrielle was a Category 3 tropical cyclone that affected New Zealand between 12–14 February 2023. Here we profile its impacts on 65 North Island ecosanctuaries. Specifically, we (1) report the frequency and severity of different types of cyclone damage experienced by ecosanctuaries, (2) describe the frequency and severity of impacts on conservation infrastructure and activities, and (3) offer recommendations to help ecosanctuaries prepare for future extreme weather events. Eighty-two percent of North Island ecosanctuaries suffered cyclone damage. Damage from wind and erosion were frequently reported (91% and 85% of affected ecosanctuaries, respectively) and of moderate severity on average. Flooding (45%) and sediment deposition (36%) were less common, and their impacts mostly minor. Multiple impacts on conservation infrastructure or activities were experienced by 63% of ecosanctuaries. Of particular concern, 50% of cyclone-affected ecosanctuaries with pest exclusion fencing suffered at least one breach, with rapid pest incursions detected in three out of the five cases of fence damage. Impacts on other infrastructure (e.g. buildings, roads, tracks) were widespread and often accompanied by disruption to pest management and native species monitoring. Longer term issues include lost access to management areas, sustained reductions in pest management efficiency and conservation workforce capacity, and opportunity costs associated with recovery instead of progress. Although Cyclone Gabrielle set back many individual conservation projects, the resilience of the broader network of ecosanctuaries was encouraging. We conclude with management recommendations focussed on preparation, response, recovery, and data and research needs.