New Zealand’s national Kiwi hatchery welcomed their 2,500th fluffy kiwi chick into the world.
Kiwis (the human kind) had their say in the naming process, choosing between the beautiful names Aumangea and Ātārangi.
While it was a close vote, one name was a clear winner - Ātārangi, which is 'morning sky' in Te Reo.
Ātārangi is only one week old, and its gender is not yet known due to its young age.
Emma Bean, Business Manager of the National Kiwi Hatchery, said: “Welcoming the 2500th member into our whānau is a very proud moment for the facility and a testament to the dedication of our team in preserving the national manu of Aotearoa.”
"IT’S AN IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITY TO RAISE AWARENESS OF NEW ZEALAND’S THREATENED SPECIES THAT ARE IN RAPID DECLINE IN THE WILD.”
This milestone comes off the back of an incredible hatching season in 2023 when a whopping 153 kiwi chicks were welcomed into the world.
If you’re interested in meeting Ātārangi, Te Ngākau, and all the other Kiwis, the national hatchery has opened its doors to the public.
It’s at Rotorua’s Agrodome and is custom-built to support kiwi kaitiakitanga, be environmentally sustainable and have a big outdoor area where native plants will grow.
Emma said the new location will be so good for the future of our national bird.
"This relocation will allow us to power up our vital work in preserving our national manu (bird). The kiwi is a protected species and the population needs a little added support sometimes, ensuring its numbers flourish well into the future," she said.
Have you ever seen a newly hatched Kiwi?
