A record number of threatened kākā have been released into the Abel Tasman National Park.
Twelve of the native parrots - raised in captivity - flew from their purpose-built aviary at Bark Bay and into the wilderness.
It was a magical moment for some young environmental ambassadors who were there for the occasion, along with iwi who blessed the moment and the volunteers who have worked hard to make it happen.
RNZ's Te Tau Ihu - top of the South reporter Tracy Neal was there.
