The Department of Conservation said a worryingly high numbers of kiwi have been killed by a dog or dogs around Kerikeri over the last two months, with at least seven kiwi found dead in the Wharau Rd area, east of Kerikeri, between May 20 and July 8.
DoC is urging people to keep dogs away from where kiwi live and are appealing for help to track down the dog, or dogs, responsible for the latest attacks.
Massey University vets have confirmed that the first two kiwi found were killed by dogs. The other dead birds also have injuries consistent with dog attacks.
FNDC Animal Control Officers have been helping DoC with their enquiries and have, through property checks, accounted for about 15 new dogs. Officers have also spoken to several dog owners in the area, and set a live capture dog trap in the Wharau Rd area to prevent further dog attacks on kiwi.
"I would urge anyway who sees a dog that is threatening kiwi to call 09 401 5200 or our 24 hour service line 0800 920 029 and we will dispatch animal control staff to apprehend the dog," Mr Myburgh said.
