Their systematic survey of the cave ecosystems in the Tākaka region has led to the discovery of the first cave-adapted mite harvesters (Arachnida: Opiliones: Cyphlophthalmi) endemic to Aotearoa. This discovery, documented in a recent study, highlights the presence of troglomorphic traits—adaptations to life in caves—in populations of the genus Aoraki.

Specimens were collected from Woolshed Cave and Sims Cave, both karst features located in the northern South Island. The findings suggest that these cave-dwelling arachnids represent cave-adapted populations of Aoraki weslandica, a species previously known only from surface environments.

The Tākaka Hill Biodiversity Group Trust, a community-led initiative dedicated to restoring and protecting indigenous ecosystems, has been instrumental in advancing knowledge of New Zealand’s cave fauna.

Their Cave Faun Project, supported by the Rāta Foundation and Hāpa Hapori Lotteries Environment and Heritage Funding, has enabled systematic biodiversity surveys in the region’s caves. This effort builds on earlier work by the Department of Conservation, which noted the lack of systematic sampling of New Zealand’s caves. “This discovery underscores the importance of community-driven conservation efforts,” said Charmaine Petereit, Project Manager for the Trust.