Kakapo near milestone

Conservationists are closing in on a crucial milestone for the endangered kakapo after the successful hatching of two chicks.

The two new arrivals, on the wildlife sanctuary of Whenua Hou/Codfish Island, near Stewart Island, brings to 93 the population of the world's rarest parrot, found only in New Zealand.

With another 25 fertile eggs yet to hatch, another eight to be checked, and seven more females ready to nest, it is hoped the population might soon cross into the three figures.