Southland Museum & Art Gallery (SMAG) manager David Luoni said the translocation was scheduled for autumn 2020.
The move was the precursor to a new permit from the Department of Conversation, and to an inter-iwi Memorandum of Understanding, he said.
In a statement, board chair Toni Biddle said the popular and famous Henry, Mildred and Lucy were expected to stay at the Invercargill pyramid under the care of curator Lindsay Hazley.
The SMAG trust board applied earlier this year to renew its permit under the Wildlife Act to hold 20 tuatara; the remainder will be released in the Marlborough Sounds, within Ngati Koata's boundaries.
Mrs Biddle said the board cared for 105 tuatara, and that it was moving to a bicultural model.
‘‘This is to recognise tuatara's status as living taonga and their significance to iwi; especially to Ngai Koata and Ngai Tahu.’’
Mr Hazley said the release was a mark of the museum’s breeding programme’s success.
“I think it’s absolutely brilliant ... The new phase we’re heading into is bringing fantastic opportunities, with the recognition of iwi as kaitiaki (guardians) finally coming to fruition, partnerships are being established.
‘‘Ensuring we are working together is future-proofing the programme as well. I need to pass on my knowledge to the next generation.”
