With the release on Saturday of eight rare Haast tokoeka into burrows at Orokonui Ecosanctuary, near Waitati, Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson said Dunedin's claim to be the wildlife capital of New Zealand had more weight.
"You can't be the wildlife capital of New Zealand without having some kiwi," she said, admitting a fondness for the birds.
"They are really special to our culture as New Zealanders so we need to do what we can to protect the kiwi."
The kiwi were captured on creche islands in lakes Manapouri and Te Anau on Friday by Department of Conservation staff and transported to Dunedin by road for their release on Saturday.
At a ceremony at the ecosanctuary's visitor centre to mark the release, Te Runanga o Makaawhio, of South Westland, handed over guardianship of the Haast tokoeka to the Karitane-based runanga Kati Huirapa ki Puketeraki.
Makaawhio Upoko (chief) the Rev Richard Wallace said it was an important occasion and a great pleasure to bring the kiwi to Otago.
Huirapa Upoko David Ellison welcomed the "lost treasures" to Orokonui and promised they would be well looked after.
"It is a marvellous day for us."
Otago Natural History Trust chairman Neville Peat said it was a "hugely special and auspicious day" to have the kiwi released in the ecosanctuary.
"We're thrilled to take up the baton [for their care]."
Representatives of the two runanga, the Otago Natural History Trust and Doc South Westland signed a protocol agreement for the care of the birds at the ecosanctuary.
Ms Wilkinson and Mr Peat then released a kiwi each into burrows in the predator-proof sanctuary.
Doc staff released the remaining kiwi in other parts of the sanctuary.
Supporters of the kiwi also attended a fundraising gala at the Custom House on Saturday night to celebrate the release.
