An intensive pest-control operation in the Hunua Ranges in 2015 has paid off, allowing kiwi to be reintroduced to the forest.
The success of the Hunua Project and ongoing work of volunteers in the kōkako management areas means pest numbers have dropped significantly.
Deputy Mayor and Franklin Ward Councillor Bill Cashmore says the council, Ngāti Whanaunga and Ngāti Paoa have been granted permission to transfer 40 birds from the Coromandel Range over the next six years.
“This will establish a founding population of North Island brown kiwi, which we hope will thrive in the pest-free areas of the park,” he says.
“Kohukohunui is very special to Māori and we are delighted to be working alongside mana whenua to restore this taonga species to the ranges.”
The first release is expected in late summer.
