30 October 2010: Kiwi Surprise

Before we get to the amazing surprise we had today, we should update you on the research equipment situation. It has all arrived! A wonderful assistant in the Bio department down here (who is getting married this weekend- cheers!) assisted Kevin in getting the equipment from customs in a very smooth manner. Yeah!

Also, we continue to settle in. We have found our way about town, will be getting a NZ cellphone early next week, and will be purchasing a car hopefully on Monday. A red Dodge Neon that Megan has named the Red Baron. Pictures to follow.

Now, today we decided to visit the ecological sanctuary of Maungatautari (Maori for Mount Tautari). This is a triple peaked mountain preserve completely surrounded by fencing. They have managed to clear this huge, huge area of all stoats (sp?), rats, mice (for the most part), and possums. Thus, the bush and the large diversity of bird life is flourishing here. And it is spectacular! The ferns seem straight out of Jurassic Park.

The size of the ferns are incredible!

As if the trail,the birds along the trail, and the gorgeous day weren't enough....we came upon something amazing on our way out of the sanctuary....a conservationalist checking the health and the batteries of the tracking unit on a father and baby kiwi! We had hoped to see a kiwi in our time down here, but never thought we would get this close. However, it got better. He let both of us hold the baby after doing its health check:

This little guy is 3 weeks old. He nuzzled right in to Kevin :-)

What an amazing experience!! We are now considering volunteering with the trust that manages this preserve during our time down here. There are many great trails to hike and we would love to help in the monitoring while we are enjoying them.

Love and hugs!