2019 has been a successful year so far for one of the world's most endangered birds.

The kakapo, which has only 147 adults left, has had their best breeding season on record.

The Department of Conservation says 76 chicks have been hatched under its scheme this year, with at least 60 expected to make it to adulthood.

That more than doubles 2016's numbers.

Department of Conservation kakapo field ranger Jake Osborne told the Otago Daily Times earlier this month that it is a big boost to the population.

"This means an increase in 50% of the numbers of kakapos in the world."

The flightless parrots only breed every two to four years in "mast years" - when their favourite fruit grows on rimu.