Napier and Hastings residents are being called upon to urgently get outside and search for kiwi.
Quest for Kiwi is a new national community project launched for Save Kiwi Month, which aims to clarify where kiwi are both present and absent. The project aims to provide a better understanding of where conservation efforts are most needed to ensure kiwi are preserved for future generations.
Napier and Hastings are considered to be "hotspots" as there are previous records of kiwi being in the area but no recent data to support that.
Executive director of Kiwis for Kiwi, Michelle Impey, said while they wanted to hear of kiwi sightings everywhere in New Zealand, the priority was the hotspots.
"We are encouraging Napier and Hastings residents to report sightings and calls of kiwi.
"We are very keen to update our information and get help to where it's most needed."
There are many ways to identify kiwi - from their calls, feathers, poo, burrows, footprints or probe holes.
"As many people will be unfamiliar with these types of evidence, they can visit the website kiwisforkiwi.org to learn about what to look for, hear kiwi calls and view pictures.
Sightings and calls can be recorded using a mobile phone app or a camera.
The information can be uploaded on to the Quest for Kiwi web page on NatureWatch.co.nz, an online platform for recording New Zealand's natural history.
It will be posted to the kiwi location map and is available for verification from bird and kiwi specialists.
Quest for Kiwi is a partnership between Kiwis for Kiwi and Department of Conservation (DoC) through NatureWatch NZ.
Ms Impey said: "This is not only a data-gathering exercise important to the ongoing work of saving kiwi from extinction but an opportunity for everyone to get involved and learn more about our national icon."