Did you know that up until 10 years ago the Okarito Brown Kiwi

were thought to be the same as  North Island Brown Kiwi?

It was only in 1994 that they were found to be an entirely new

species and given the name Rowi. 

The most obvious difference is that Rowi are quite greyish in colour and often have

patches of white feathers on their faces.

 

They also feel soft to touch, whereas North Island Brown Kiwi feel quite coarse.

 

Both the male and female Rowi take it in turns to look after the eggs,

        while in most other kiwi varieties only the male does this.

 

Great Spotted Kiwi are found from Nelson to Arthurs Pass.

 

Little Spotted Kiwi are extinct on mainland New Zealand, apart from Karori Sanctuary in  Wellington, where they are protected by a predator proof fence.

 

North Island Brown Kiwi is found in the North Island.