Available through The Captains Quarter Gallery, Akaroa - phone: 64 27 298 9288
Email: hello@thecaptainsquarter.nz
 
Story
I’ve been fortunate to encounter kiwi birds in several eco-sanctuaries, including Zealandia, Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre, and Kiwi Park.
 
Witnessing these iconic creatures in their natural habitat is truly magical. Zealandia’s night tour was particularly unforgettable. Our guide led us along winding trails, weaving captivating stories about the sanctuary’s conservation work. The stillness of the night was punctuated by the occasional calls of Ruru (moreporks) and Kiwi. Every step felt like stepping into a timeless, untouched world.
 
After about 40 minutes, our guide signaled us to pause and listen. We held our breath as soft rustling grew louder. Suddenly, from behind a cluster of ferns, a small brown figure emerged—our first Kiwi, followed by eight more!
 
Their soft brown feathers in the inky black of night made the birds challenging to spot, but I was mesmerized. Seeing these birds thriving in such a serene, protected environment felt like an immense privilege, deepening my connection to the land of my birth.
 
As we made our way back, I couldn’t stop smiling. The experience was exhilarating and profoundly inspiring, leaving me with a renewed appreciation for nature.
 
Since photography wasn’t allowed, I sketched from memory and created a painting that captured the magic of those unforgettable encounters.
 
The painting measures 229 x 305mm (9x12") and I have had it professionally framed by Lewis Paape Gallery, Wellington. The total measurements are 375mm wide x 295mm high x 55mm deep (14.76" wide x 11.61" high x 2.16" deep).
 
Thank you for supporting a living artist!