The population of the North Island brown kiwi has increased by at least 7000 birds in the last four years, through the work of 25 conservation projects.

That's according to a survey by the umbrella group Save the Kiwi which supports Māori and community-led conservation projects across the North Island.

But there are fears the situation could quickly reverse if adequate funding is not earmarked for conservation.

Save the Kiwi chief executive Michelle Impey spoke to Charlotte Cook.