Three local conservation groups have been given more than $125,000 of government funding for their work to preserve the local environment and ensure the survival of endangered kokako.
Taupo MP Louise Upston was in Rotorua today, on behalf of Conservation Minister Maggie Barry, to distribute funding to three local volunteer groups as part of the Department of Conservation's Community Fund.
The Rotoehu Ecological Trust received $102,200 for pest control and kokako breeding in the Pongakawa region.
This project is a collaboration between Rotoehu Ecological Trust, Kaingaroa Timberlands and Ngati Makino Heritage Trust for pest and weed control in Rotoehu Forest where about 150 kokako live.
"Rotoehu Forest is home to 150 North Island kokako but has the space to support at least 500 birds," Ms Barry said in a press release.