A West Coast community has increased its reward for information on fires set in a kiwi sanctuary, saying it is refusing to give up hope that those responsible will be caught.
Six fires were lit in the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary in February, burning about 20 hectares and putting the critically endangered rowi kiwi at risk.
Richard Saunders, of Okarito, says residents and businesses have pledged more money, bringing the reward for information leading to a conviction to about $8,500.
Mr Saunders says the reward shows the community is upset and locals want to see justice done.
He says he put a call out for donations when he realised there was not going to be any help from the Government.
