DNA testing has identified one of the dogs responsible for the Bay of Islands' worst spate of kiwi killings in almost 30 years.
Seven kiwi were found dead last month on Wharau Rd, off Kerikeri Inlet Rd, with injuries caused by dog bites. The total number killed is thought to be considerably higher.
Following the deaths, Department of Conservation (DoC) rangers and council animal control officers carried out patrols in the area and went door-to-door speaking to dog owners.
They also took skin and fur samples from four dogs belonging to Wharau Rd residents to see if their DNA matched dog saliva found on the carcasses.
DoC ranger Adrian Walker said DNA from one of the dogs matched the saliva. The department would now speak to the dog's owners.