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The kiwi population on Mount Tamahunga got a boost on March 10 when a further 10 birds were released into the wild.
This follows the release of 10 birds last year, which have since produced three chicks.
While the first birds were from Motuora Island, the latest recruits came from just down the road at Tawharanui Regional Park. The kiwi were caught, health checked and fitted with transmitters by kiwi handlers the night prior to transfer and then blessed the following morning by Ngāti Manuhiri.
Tossi chair Sally Richardson said after the first release of kiwi at the regional park nearly 20 years ago, Tawharanui now has a thriving population.
“We’re very pleased to be in a position to repopulate other local areas that are well predator controlled,” she said.
The release involved the collective efforts and support of Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, Auckland Council, Department of Conservation, Save the Kiwi, Tossi and The Forest Bridge Trust.
