A late-night wildlife rescue unfolded in Arthur’s Pass on Thursday evening when an injured great spotted kiwi was found by a roadside and taken to an outdoor education centre.
The man, identified as Pete, who discovered the wounded bird noticed the centre’s lights on and sought help.
Staff contacted a registered kiwi handler who lived nearby to assess the bird’s condition.
Meanwhile, students from Loburn School who were preparing for a glow worm walk were given the opportunity to observe the kiwi quietly before she was wrapped in a towel to reduce her stress.
The young female kiwi was then taken to a veterinary clinic by local volunteer Graeme, dubbed the “Uber kiwi transporter”.
Vets treated her overnight with fluids and pain medication, and she received stitches in one foot.
“She seems to be doing well but it is too soon to say she is in the clear,” Arthur’s Pass Outdoor Education Centre said in a statement.
It is unknown whether the kiwi was microchipped, which would confirm her identity.
“If not, Pete, the chap who rescued her off the road, has kindly said Loburn School can name her.”
