National Pekapeka Hui 2026

March 25 - 27 2026

We’re excited to be hosting the National Pekapeka Hui 2026 in Franklin.

Since the 2023 hui, our bat-conservation community in Aotearoa has grown in ambition and reach. We have more community groups active, more private landowners willing to engage, and more opportunities to integrate iwi / mana whenua knowledge with scientific research and applied practice. This 2026 hui aims to bring scientists, iwi, private landowners, community conservation practitioners and government agencies together in one forum - not just to share research, but to share people, knowledge, stories, tools and partnerships.

When: 25 -27th March, 2026.

Where: Rereteewhioi Marae, Waiuku

The National Bat Hui is coming to Franklin… and we’re hosting!

Upcoming Dates

Abstracts

If you would like to submit an abstract for the National Pekapeka Hui, please fill in the submission form below.

Submissions close 27/01/26

Registrations

Registrations to attend open in February, follow Finding Franklin Bats on Facebook or sign up to our newsletter to keep up to date.

Programme

The National Bat Hui Programme will be released in February, follow Finding Franklin Bats on Facebook or sign up to our newsletter to keep up to date.

  • Make the most of your trip to Franklin by exploring some of the best local attractions just a short drive from the hui. From epic natural landscapes to unique heritage experiences, there’s something for everyone:

    Nature & Coastline

    • Āwhitu Regional Park – Wander scenic trails, take in coastal views, birdwatch in wetlands, kayak, ride horses, or simply picnic by the water. A perfect mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Wikipedia

    • Karioitahi Beach – Feel the black sand under your feet at this wild west-coast beach. Ideal for sunset strolls, surfing, fishing, or just soaking up the dramatic coastal vibe. Wikipedia

    • Manukau Heads Lighthouse – Visit this historic lighthouse perched atop the Āwhitu Peninsula for breathtaking views over the Manukau Harbour and Tasman Sea. It’s a scenic spot perfect for photos and a picnic. manukauheadslighthouse.org.nz

    Heritage & Culture

    • Glenbrook Vintage Railway – Take a nostalgic steam train ride through beautiful countryside and enjoy a truly Kiwi heritage experience. It’s fun for all ages. Villa Te Soro

    • Waiuku Museum Society – Dive into local history at this charming community museum featuring Māori and early colonial exhibits. A great spot to learn more about the region’s past. waiukulodgemotel.co.nz

  • Details coming soon!

  • Details coming soon!

Important Details

Submit your abstract

Finding Franklin Bats invites researchers, iwi partners, community groups, consultants, students, and practitioners to submit abstracts for presentations, case studies, workshops, or posters for the National Pekapeka Hui 2026.

This hui celebrates the full spectrum of bat conservation in Aotearoa; from mātauranga Māori and community leadership to applied ecological practice and cutting-edge scientific research. We welcome contributions that reflect our kaupapa of people-centered, partnership-driven conservation.

We are seeking submissions in areas including (but not limited to):

  • Bat ecology, behavior, acoustics, genetics, population monitoring

  • Iwi-led or co-led conservation initiatives

  • Community and landowner-driven projects

  • Practical tools and techniques for monitoring, predator control, and restoration

  • Policy, planning, and environmental decision-making involving pekapeka

  • Storytelling, education, citizen science, and communication

  • Case studies: successes, challenges, failures, and lessons learned

  • Student or early-career research

  • Consultancy and applied management insights

Submissions close 27th January 2026