Thirty-six South Island saddlebacks are spreading their wings in Dunedin after a century-long absence from the mainland.
The rare birds, which have been living on Ulva Island near Stewart Island, have been moved to Dunedin's Orakanui eco-sanctuary.
Spokesperson Chris Baillie says the area inside a predator proof fence has been free of stoats and rats for over a year, making a future on the mainland more viable for the endangered species.
She hopes the saddlebacks may eventually explore urban Dunedin once they are well established at Orakanui sanctuary.
