Where are all the kiwis?

Still in Stewart Island, one activity on the plan was kiwi spotting. Apparently kids aren’t recommended, but we managed to find a tour to take us all. After the kids were given warnings of dire consequences if they didn’t stay quiet…

Five minutes in, our friendly tour guide made the tactical error of encouraging questions, so it was game on!

He was in top form though and the record shows only one question stumped him. Anyone know if any other birds, other than kiwis, have bone marrow?

We did manage to spot a kiwi within moments of leaving the car. Larger than you’d think and very focused on it’s evening dinner. But in the interests of adventure we continued on to explore some of the surrounding area, only to find that other than a few rats, there was not a lot stirring.

The next night, the kids and I decided to go for a wander, just in case. While we heard some calling and likely rustling, and they scared themselves silly by the various night sounds (there were not a lot of street lights), no kiwis were spotted. The compulsory hot chocolate at the end of the night was spot on though.

My son has decided a night scope is essential for our next trip…