Nothing symbolizes New Zealand more than the kiwi bird. With their unique shape, hair-like feathers and nostrils on the end of their beak, the flightless kiwi is as distinct as the island nation it calls home. The bird is so strongly linked to New Zealand that natives of the country are often referred to as “Kiwis”.
About the size of a chicken, there are five species of kiwis. They are the smallest member of the ratites family, which also includes cassowaries, ostriches and emus.
Human encroachment on their habitat, as well as the introduction of invasive predators have threatened their survival, but they can still be observed at a number of locations on the North Island.
Visitors looking to meet a kiwi can check out these spots (this list is not all inclusive).
Zealandia in Wellington
This eco-sanctuary in the heart of Wellington is a great place to spot a Little Spotted Kiwi, the smallest species of kiwi. The night tour provides the best chance of seeing these birds, as the kiwi is a nocturnal species.
Rainbow Springs Nature Park
Located in Rotorua, Rainbow Springs Nature Park is the largest kiwi hatchery in the world. They offer a number of tours to the public, including one of the hatchery.
Trounson Kauri Park
Offering guided night tours, Trounson Kauri Park provides a great opportunity to see a North Island brown kiwi in the wild. Located in Northland, the part consists of a 586-hectare forest reserve.
Otorohanga Kiwi House and Native Bird Park
A unique feature of the Otorohanga Kiwi House is an exhibit that allows people to view kiwis in an artificial night environment, so they can see them when they are active. The park offers a host of other activities (including bungy jumping) to make it well worth a visit.
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
If you want to experience the kiwi’s environment as it used to be, a visit to the Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is in order. It is surrounded by one of the world’s longest pest-proof fences, and features an eco-sanctuary that is home to untouched native forest. The Kiwi Release Experience tour, which allows visitors seeing kiwis being released into their natural habitat, is a highlight of the Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari experience.
