Three young native falcons, recently released from captivity, are being monitored around the clock by up to 50 volunteers.
The karearea have been seen checking out the city from the air since the Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre and Conservation Department released them from the Rotorua Museum this month.
It was the first release of native falcons in an urban centre.
Wingspan aviculturist Andrew Thomas said the organisation was delighted with the birds' progress.
"We couldn't be happier with how the release has gone - it really has been textbook," he said. "Everything has gone to plan, which can be hard with wild birds."