Date:  20 October 2017

The birds were brought to the attention of the Department by a member of the public on 10 October.

Taranaki-based DOC Ranger Wayne Beggs said the kererū/New Zealand pigeon were likely shot late the previous day, when a neighbour reported hearing gunshots in the area. The birds were found near a picnic table beside the reserve's main access road, about 1.5km from the main entrance.

"The birds have been x-rayed and bullet fragments found indicate the weapon used was either a high-powered slug gun or a small calibre rifle."

"DOC is looking for information that will lead to identification of the people responsible for killing the birds and is interested in hearing about any suspicious activity around the area in the days leading up 9 October," Wayne Beggs said.

"Rangers have been making enquiries in the area and DOC is now seeking information from the public. People can contact the Department's New Plymouth Office and all reports will be treated as confidential. Suspicious or illegal activity can also be reported confidentially to the 24-hour DOC 0800 DOC HOTLINE (0800 362 468)."

Kererū are protected under the Wildlife Act 1953. Anybody who hunts or kills protected wildlife without lawful authority is liable to two years imprisonment or a fine of up to $100,000, or both.

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