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Published: 11 September 2019
Last Updated: 30 October 2019
What better time to see the inhabitants of the National Aquarium of New Zealand kiwi enclosure in their freshly refurbished home than this weekend - Half Price Weekend?
The enclosure had been closed for several weeks while “home improvements” to the brown kiwi habitat were carried out, including removing and replacing the soil its residents need for probing, to encourage their natural behaviour. Complete removal and replacement of the sub-soil and leaf litter is carried out at least once a year.
The female kiwi, Mahina, which means moon, or early morning light, and the male, Kūrei, which means tip of the nose, moved in late last week.
“So many people have not had the chance to see kiwi in the wild. It’s the same with tuatara and we have both on site. We’re very lucky, and very happy to be able to provide the community a special insight into two of New Zealand’s most precious species,” says Dr Adrian Fowler, National Aquarium Director.
“So many people have not had the chance to see kiwi in the wild. It’s the same with tuatara and we have both on site. We’re very lucky...” National Aquarium's Dr Adrian Fowler
Every year the National Aquarium offers half price on general admission entry. This weekend (Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September) general admission will cost adults $11.50, children $5.75, students $10.50, seniors $8.25, and a family pass is worth $31.
Look out for the diver in the Oceanarium at 10am or 2pm, or head to the Little Penguin enclosure in time to see the hand feeding and informative talk by the keepers, at 9.30am, 1.30pm or 3.30pm. You might even spot this month’s naughty and good penguin!
The Oceanarium showcases many of the species which live in Hawke Bay, including five types of shark and reef fish. Elsewhere in the National Aquarium, you can view other native saltwater and freshwater species, as well as exotic reef and deep-sea fish from around the world.
The National Aquarium is open from 9am to 5pm daily, with the last entry at 4.30pm.
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