Thieves have struck the aviary at Napier's Botanic Gardens.
At around midday on Sunday, a visitor noticed a hole had been cut in the aviary.
Napier Senior Sergeant Andy Sloan says up to ten yellow and green parakeets were stolen. They are valued at between $800 and $1,000 a pair.
Mr Sloan says five birds were left in the aviary and police are appealing for information about the theft.
- NEWSTALK ZB