For the first time in nearly 50 years, the call of kiwi will be heard in Northland's Brynderwyn Hills.
Up to 14 North Island brown kiwi are due to be released at Marunui, a conservation area near Mangawhai in three weeks, nearly half a century after their ancestors were wiped out in the region.
They will be monitored by the private conservation group, Marunui Conservation Ltd, and trained volunteers.
Marunui Conservation says the project could result in 40 birds being released over the next three years.
