Department of Conservation senior biodiversity ranger Kev Carter said the new chicks were being guarded by both parents.
"It takes 30 days for pukunui eggs to hatch. The female sits on the nest by day and the male at night.
"Once chicks are hatched, both parents feed them throughout their fledgling stage for about six weeks until they can fly," Mr Carter said.
"Sadly, the lifespan of pukunui is often cut short as they’re killed by predators.
"The males are at particular risk as they sit on nests at night when feral cats are most active."
There are just 101 pukunui left in the world and they only breed on the mountain tops of Rakiura, from September until January, and feed on some estuaries and beaches in Southland and on Stewart Island during the winter. The past five years have seen a decline in pukunui numbers from 170 to the current 101, and they only survive on Stewart Island.
Seven nests have been found so far this season and more discoveries are expected.
A record total of 38 feral cats have been removed along with two Australasian harriers and a white-tailed deer. Many rats and possums have also been caught.
Two new rangers have been hired to intensify trapping efforts over the breeding season. — APL
