Kiwi Reflection

After a 40 minute car trip into the heart of Paparoa Range; our class Ruma C emerged through the car door to reveal a two metre high predator free fence, with a Kiwi Sanctuary logo dead centre.

Leading us through the gate, our expert Joe gestured us into a miniature compartment decorated with pictures, signs and short descriptions of her volunteer job. Handling the precious Kiwi feathers and a rough, but smooth egg shell; Joe spoke with genuine love and integrity of the beautiful Kiwi; telling many facts about habitat loss, egg laying and territorial calls.

After our quick chat, we walked with purpose downhill across a creek while Joe scuttled threw the immense gorse to give a health check on one of her Great Spotted Kiwi.

as we waited for Joe to come back with the kiwi, we began exploring their habitat inside the sanctuary. After a few hopeful moments later, we saw Joe walking calmly towards us with something squirming inside a blue bag. As she reached the bottom of the hill she sat down on the damp, mossy grass, rummaging her hands gently inside the bag and out revealed a gorgeous kiwi. Cradling the soft, beautiful creature in her arms, the kiwi squirmed but Joe held him gently as she weighed the bird to check it’s health.

Personal Comment:
Overall our trip to see the Kiwi's was a one in a million event, and to have been standing half a meter away from such an amazing bird, I would love to do it over and over again. Also, thank you to our teacher of Ruma C: Dean, for making this happen.