A kiwi carcass has been seized from a property near Wairoa by Department of Conservation (DOC) staff. DOC staff, assisted by Wairoa Police, found the kiwi body on Friday afternoon when executing a search warrant on the property.
Under the Wildlife Act of 1953, it is an offence for anyone without lawful authority to have in their possession any absolutely protected wildlife.
East Coast Hawke’s Bay Conservator, Peter Williamson said today that if people find a dead or injured native bird, it is important such finds are reported or taken to the department as quickly as possible.
“DOC encourages anyone finding dead or injured native wildlife to note the location of the find and if possible, take the animal to the nearest DOC office. We would endeavour to help any injured wildlife, and dead animals can provide valuable information to help us improve management of conservation areas,” Mr Williamson said.