The Department of Conservation is to bring charges against a group of Norwegian hunters who filmed themselves shooting kereru on the West Coast.
The five were on a fishing and shooting trip shortly after Christmas.
Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson says DoC will bring charges under the Wildlife Act and Conservation Act accusing the men of shooting two protected native pigeons using a high-powered rifle.
Ms Wilkinson says the men had the necessary permits to carry guns, but had no excuse for shooting the birds.
The offences carry a maximum penalty of 12 months in prison or a fine up to $100,000.
