Kokako released in the Wairarapa

Kokako are back in the wild in Wairarapa after five birds were released at Mt Bruce last week, ending 50 years of silence from the kokako call.

A combined effort by local iwi Rangitaane o Wairarapa, the Conservation Department, regional councils and the National Wildlife Centre prepared the bush for the birds, which had been captured in the Mangatutu forest near Te Kuiti.

About 3400 rats, 1190 possums, 45 stoats, 464 hedgehogs, 71 cats, 14 weasels and 76 ferrets were trapped at Mt Bruce over the past two years in preparation for the birds' release into the last remnant of the 70 Mile Bush.

Forty kiwi may also be released there this year.