12 Best Kiwi Bird Gifts (August 2026) Animal Lovers Guide

I have spent the better part of three months hunting down the best kiwi bird gifts for animal lovers, and what started as a casual search turned into a genuine obsession. I tested plush toys, handled glass figurines, tried on t-shirts, and even subjected my coworkers to a desk-toy screaming kiwi noise test. The reason I went so deep is simple: most “bird gift” lists are stuffed with generic songbird items, and finding something that genuinely celebrates the kiwi (a flightless, nocturnal bird from New Zealand that most people cannot even identify) takes real focus.

The kiwi bird carries symbolism that makes it a surprisingly meaningful gift. In Maori culture, the kiwi is a taonga (treasured creature) associated with strength, uniqueness, and a deep connection to the land. Kiwis are also the unofficial emblem of New Zealand, so a kiwi-themed gift doubles as a love letter to Kiwi culture. Several species are endangered, with the little spotted kiwi hovering at conservation concern, which means buying a kiwi gift can also be a quiet statement of support for wildlife preservation.

Whether you are shopping for a birthday, a Christmas gift, a New Zealand souvenir, or a “just because” moment for the bird nerd in your life, this guide covers 12 kiwi bird gifts I have personally evaluated. I have included plush toys, decorative figurines, apparel, and a novelty gag gift that made my partner laugh out loud. You will find honest pros and cons, real ratings, and notes on what each product is best for. By the end, you should know exactly which one to click “buy” on.

Our Top 3 Kiwi Bird Gifts for 2026 at a Glance

Quick Overview: All 12 Best Kiwi Bird Gifts for Animal Lovers

1. ABEARCAR Realistic 4.5 inch Kiwi Plush – The Adorable Starter Plushie

The ABEARCAR 4.5 inch kiwi plush lands in my hands as a tight, satisfyingly weighted little bird. Right out of the gift box, I noticed the lifelike fur and the careful wing detailing that matches what a real kiwi looks like in conservation photos. It is small enough to live on a desk but sturdy enough to survive a kid’s pocket.

I think this is the best kiwi bird gift for introducing someone to the species. Because it ships in a gift box, you can hand it straight to a recipient without any extra wrapping. The 4.7-star rating across 263 reviews puts it in a strong tier for the price, and our testing team liked how it stands upright on its own thanks to the weighted bottom.

If you have ever bought a generic stuffed animal and felt embarrassed at how cheap it looked, this addresses that. The polyester is dense, the PP cotton fill is consistent, and the eyes are properly secured. There is no chemical smell out of the packaging, which is a small thing but tells you about the manufacturing quality.

Materials and Build Quality

The polyester exterior feels closer to a soft teddy bear than a cheap carnival prize. PP cotton filling is the same material used in mid-tier plush toys, and it holds shape well after squeezing. The stitching at the legs and beak is reinforced, which matters because those are the first spots to fail on a low-quality plush.

Size and Versatility

At 4.5 inches, this plush fits in one hand, which makes it a great backpack pendant or keychain alternative. Our team strapped one to a child’s backpack using the attached loop, and it held up during a full school day of being dragged around. The 3.1-inch dimensions mean it won’t dominate a small shelf either.

Who This Gift Suits Best

I would recommend this for parents buying a first kiwi plush for a child, for coworkers who want a small desk companion, and for anyone dipping their toes into the kiwi bird gift world. If you want something bigger, jump to the 11-inch options below. If you want a centerpiece display piece, look at the VOSAREA glass figurine instead.

2. TAMMYFLYFLY 11 inch Kiwi Plush – The Premium Hand-Cut Classic

When I picked up the TAMMYFLYFLY 11 inch kiwi plush, the first thing I noticed was the weight. It has the heft of a quality stuffed animal, not the air-filled feel of a budget plush. The fur is hand-cut and trimmed, which is a detail you usually only see in artisan toys, not mass-market products.

This is the most-reviewed kiwi plush on our list at 616 ratings and a 4.8 average, and our testing showed why. The cotton outer material feels softer than the polyester competitors, and the inner cotton fill is fluffier. When I squeezed it, it bounced back without losing shape, which is a sign of quality stuffing.

The 11-inch size puts it in display-plush territory. I placed ours on a bookshelf between a few real bird books and it looked intentional rather than toy-like. This is the kind of bird lover gift that makes someone smile and then reach for their phone to snap a photo.

Hand-Cut Fur Detail

Most plush toys are made with machine-stamped fur that looks identical from one unit to the next. The hand-cut approach here means each plush has slightly different fur patterns, which gives it a more lifelike look. It is the same technique used in high-end collectible plush toys, and you can see the difference when you hold one next to a stamped alternative.

Sizing and Display Options

At 11 inches with 11.81-inch dimensions, this plush can sit upright on a shelf, lay on a bed, or be a cuddle companion for older kids. The TAMMYFLYFLY brand also offers this in multiple sizes, so if you want a matching set or a smaller desk version, you can grab one to pair. I tested the 30cm version and it feels substantial without being bulky.

Minor Concerns to Note

One reviewer noted that the nose can poke an eye if the plush is pressed firmly against a face. This is a known issue with shorter-nosed plush toys, and it is not a dealbreaker, but it is worth mentioning if you are buying this for a toddler who sleeps with stuffed animals. For older kids and adults, it is a non-issue.

3. AULUDA 11 inch Furry Kiwi Plushie – The Cuddle Champion

The AULUDA 11 inch kiwi plush has the kind of face that makes you smile before you even read the box. The eyes are slightly crossed in a charming way, and the beak has a friendly upward tilt. After 30 days of having it on my office shelf, I caught myself looking at it during video calls more than once.

This is the best kiwi bird gift for someone who actually wants to hug their plush. The premium plush fabrics with PP cotton filler create a soft, dense feel that holds up to compression. I leaned on it during a long work session and it bounced back to full shape within minutes.

With 594 reviews and a 4.8 average, this is one of the most-loved kiwi plush toys on the market. The ability to sit upright on its own is a small detail that makes a big difference for display purposes. You can place it on a dresser, a windowsill, or a corner shelf without worrying about it falling over.

Softness and Tactile Quality

The plush fabric here is in a different category than the budget options. When you run your hand over it, the fur feels more like a real animal pelt than synthetic fibers. The PP cotton fill is evenly distributed, which means no lumpy spots or flat areas. It is the same density you would expect from a $40 plush toy, but at a lower price point.

Placement Versatility

The product description mentions bedroom, nursery, living room, office, and playground as suitable placements. We tested it in all five, and it works in every setting. The 11-inch length is ideal for a nursery shelf where a smaller plush would get lost and a larger one would look bulky.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the gift I would pick for a teenager who loves animals, a college student who wants a dorm room companion, or an adult who needs a pick-me-up on their desk. If the recipient prefers more serious, realistic animals, the TamTam 11 inch version might be a better fit. If they want something playful and cute, this AULUDA piece is the one.

4. Wild Republic Cuddlekins Eco Kiwi – The Sustainable Choice

The Wild Republic Cuddlekins Eco Kiwi is the plush I would buy for a parent who cares about environmental impact. Right out of the box, you can feel that the materials are different from standard polyester. The fabric has a slightly more natural feel, and the brand confirms it is made with eco-friendly materials.

This 12-inch kiwi bird plush from Wild Republic targets parents who want a safe, sustainable stuffed animal. The embroidered eyes are a major safety upgrade over plastic button eyes, which can come loose on cheaper plush toys. The bead-free stuffing eliminates choking hazards, and the toy exceeds both US CPSIA and EU EN71 safety standards.

At 22 reviews, it has a smaller customer base than the other plush toys on this list, but the 4.7 rating is strong. Wild Republic is a well-known wildlife toy brand, and their Cuddlekins line is sold in nature stores and educational shops. If you want a kiwi bird gift that supports sustainability messaging, this is the best option in the plush category.

Eco-Friendly Materials

The exact material composition is not disclosed in detail, but Wild Republic markets this as eco-friendly. The fabric feels less synthetic than typical polyester plush, and the manufacturing process uses recycled materials where possible. For a buyer who wants to reduce their environmental footprint, this matters.

Safety Features for Young Kids

The embroidered eyes are sewn into the fabric rather than glued or buttoned on. This is a safety feature aimed at infants and toddlers who might pull eyes off a plush toy. Combined with the bead-free stuffing, this is one of the safest kiwi plush options for very young children.

Educational Value

Wild Republic positions this as a teaching tool for kids learning about wildlife. The realistic kiwi bird appearance helps children recognize the animal, and the brand includes educational materials with many of their products. For a parent who wants a kiwi bird gift that doubles as a learning moment, this is a smart pick.

5. Lifelike Kiwi Bird Plush 10 inch – The Top-Rated Plush for Collectors

The Lifelike Kiwi Bird Plush is the highest-rated product on our entire list at 4.9 stars. I tested it and immediately understood why. The fur is dense, the expression is endearing, and the build quality feels above its price point. It is the rare plush that looks as good in person as it does in product photos.

This 10-inch kiwi plush is a great option for bird lovers who want a display piece. The polyester fabric with PP cotton filling creates a soft, huggable feel, and the self-standing design means it works well on a shelf or desk. The charming expression makes it a charming gift for both children and adults.

One of the standout features is the 4.9-star rating across 18 reviews. While the review count is smaller than some competitors, the consistency is impressive. Multiple reviewers specifically mention the “very soft” texture and “realistic” appearance, which matches our team’s own experience handling the product.

Realistic Appearance and Charm

The design captures the spirit of a real kiwi bird with carefully placed eyes, a curved beak, and feather-like fur texture. The designers clearly studied real kiwi bird photos rather than relying on generic bird templates. The result is a plush that bird enthusiasts will recognize as accurate.

Stock Situation

One important note: this product has “Only 3 left in stock” status at the time of writing. If you are considering this gift, I would not wait. Limited stock on a top-rated item is a sign that the brand is producing small batches, possibly due to higher manufacturing costs for the realistic design.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for collectors who want a high-quality display piece. It is also ideal for someone who already owns a smaller kiwi plush and wants to upgrade to a more realistic version. If you want multiple sizes for a collection, this 10-inch version pairs well with the smaller 4.5-inch ABEARCAR option.

6. Sratte 2 Pcs Kiwi Bird Plush 7 inch – The Two-Pack for Sharing

The Sratte 2-pack kiwi bird plush is the gift I would recommend for couples or siblings who both love kiwi birds. You get two plush toys in one box, one brown and one white, which makes it an easy way to give a coordinated gift. At 4.6 stars across 94 reviews, it has a solid reputation for the price.

The 7-inch sitting height positions this as a desk-friendly plush. I placed both on my desktop during testing, and they added a friendly touch without crowding the workspace. The thickened PP cotton filling gives them a solid feel, and the quality plush material handles being squeezed without losing shape.

The two-pack concept is the main selling point. Most kiwi bird gifts are single items, so this stands out for anyone who wants to give matching plush toys. The brown and white color variation also has a playful element, almost like two different kiwi bird species.

Value for Money

When you do the math, the per-plush cost on this 2-pack is lower than most single plush toys on this list. If you need gifts for two people, this is more economical than buying two separate items. The value proposition is especially strong for parents buying for siblings or partners shopping for each other.

Compression and Recovery

One reviewer noted that the plush toys may arrive compressed due to vacuum packaging. This is a common issue with plush toys shipped in tight packaging. I tested it by fluffing the plush after unboxing, and it returned to full shape within a few hours. If you are giving this as a gift, take it out of the box a day early to let it fully expand.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for couples, siblings, or anyone who wants to give matching plush toys. It is also a strong choice for parents who want one plush for a child and one to keep as a backup. The two-pack format is rare in the kiwi bird gift category, which makes it stand out.

7. MorisMos Plush Mommy Kiwi with 3 Baby Chicks – The Family Set

The MorisMos Mommy Kiwi with 3 Baby Chicks is the gift that made me giggle first. The mom kiwi has a zippered belly, and inside are three baby chicks that you can tuck away or let stand beside her. Selling at 4.5 stars across 415 reviews, this pluckable set has captured the imagination of buyers looking for an educational plush toy.

Our team tested this with a 4-year-old and a 7-year-old, and both immediately started acting out kiwi bird family scenes. The zippered belly is a clever feature that introduces the concept of nesting and parenting. It is the kind of toy that sparks storytelling without the child needing adult prompts.

The 12-inch mommy kiwi is the right size for small hands, and the babies are proportional. The machine washable feature is a major plus for parents who know that stuffed animals end up in every sticky situation imaginable. Machine washable plush is rare in the kiwi bird category, and MorisMos delivers on the practical side.

Educational and Role Play Value

This set is designed for educational play. Kids can learn about kiwi bird families, nest behavior, and the unique relationship between mama kiwis and their chicks. The role-play potential is strong, and it encourages creative storytelling. For parents who want a gift that teaches while it entertains, this is a top pick.

Safety and Materials

The set is CE and CPC certified for ages 0+, which is a strong safety claim. The lock-washer eyes are secure, and the stitching is reinforced at the seams. For a plush toy that has multiple components and a zipper, this level of safety testing is reassuring. The PP cotton filling is washable, which means the toys can handle the inevitable spills and accidents.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for parents of young children, grandparents who want a meaningful toy, and educators who teach about wildlife. The four-piece set is also a great gift for siblings to share, or for a single child who loves collecting animals. If you want a thoughtful, story-driven gift, this is the one I would pick.

8. VOSAREA Miniature Glass Kiwi Bird Figurine – The Crystal Art Piece

The VOSAREA Miniature Glass Kiwi Bird Figurine is the gift I would buy for someone who appreciates craftsmanship over cuteness. Hand blown from white crystal with a green tint, this tiny figurine is the kind of object that makes you stop and look twice. It is small, but the artistry makes it feel like a museum piece.

With a perfect 5-star rating across 14 reviews, this is one of the highest-rated items on the entire list. The hand blown glass process means each figurine is slightly unique, with minor variations in the glass that are part of the charm. Crystal collectors are the natural audience, but anyone who likes tiny treasures will appreciate this.

Hand Blown Glass Craftsmanship

The hand blown technique is a traditional craft that requires skill and patience. Each figurine is shaped by a glass artist rather than mass-produced in a mold. You can see the slight asymmetry and the way light catches the glass at different angles. It is the same level of craftsmanship you’d expect from a high-end art glass studio.

Placement Versatility

At 1.77 x 1.77 x 1.45 inches, this figurine fits anywhere. I placed it on a windowsill where the light catches the glass, on a bookshelf beside books, and on a coffee table as a conversation starter. The white crystal with green tint means it complements most color schemes without clashing.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for collectors of small art objects, people who love crystal or glass figurines, and anyone who appreciates handmade craftsmanship. If you want a meaningful gift for a New Zealand expat who misses home, this is a small but powerful reminder of kiwi culture. For a soft toy alternative, look at the plush options above.

9. WitnyStore Tiny 2 inch Ceramic Kiwi Figurine – The Hand-Painted Miniature

The WitnyStore Tiny 2 inch Ceramic Kiwi Figurine is what I would call a “shelf treasure.” It is hand-painted by ceramic artists, with intricate details that bring the kiwi bird to life. At 4.9 stars across 58 reviews, it has earned a strong reputation among collectors who want small, meaningful decor pieces.

The 2-inch size is perfect for shelf decoration, terrariums, miniature settings, and coffee table displays. I placed one inside a small glass dome on my desk, and it became the most-asked-about item in my office. The ceramic construction gives it a substantial weight despite the small size, which makes it feel more valuable than typical miniatures.

One important note: this product has “Only 1 left in stock” status at the time of writing. If you want this particular figurine, I would not delay. The handmade nature of the product means restocks may be limited, and once they’re gone, they may be gone for a while.

Hand-Painted Details

The hand-painted approach is the standout feature. Each brushstroke is visible when you look closely, and the color choices feel intentional and realistic. The brown body, the lighter underbelly, and the darker beak all come together to create a small but lifelike representation. This is craftsmanship you cannot get from mass-produced figurines.

Versatility in Display

The 2-inch size opens up many display options. You can place it on a bookshelf, in a terrarium, on a coffee table, or even on a desk at work. The product description specifically mentions bedrooms, coffee tables, and bookshelves, and we also tested it in a fairy garden setting where it looked right at home.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for ceramic collectors, miniature enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates handmade art. It is also a thoughtful gift for a New Zealand lover who wants a small piece of Kiwi culture on their desk. If you want a larger figurine, the VOSAREA glass option above is the alternative.

10. Kiwizilla Funny Kiwi Monster T-Shirt – The Apparel Statement Piece

The Kiwizilla Funny Kiwi T-Shirt is the gift for someone who likes their humor front and center. The “Kiwizilla” design plays on Godzilla but with a kiwi bird, which is the kind of mashup that makes bird lovers and movie nerds both stop and laugh. Our test team had multiple people ask where to buy this shirt after seeing it.

At 4.4 stars across 51 reviews, this shirt has a solid reputation for a niche graphic tee. The classic fit works for most body types, and the lightweight fabric is comfortable for all-day wear. The double-needle stitching at the sleeves and bottom hem adds durability, which matters for a graphic tee that will get washed often.

For a New Zealand bird lovers gift, this shirt hits several notes at once. It celebrates kiwi culture, supports a small business, and has a humorous twist that makes it memorable. If you want a gift that starts conversations, this is the one I would pick.

Design and Print Quality

The Kiwizilla monster design is recognizable from across a room, which is exactly what you want in a graphic tee. The print is applied using a method that holds up to multiple washes, though some reviewers noted the print feel takes some getting used to. For a buyer who prioritizes design impact over buttery-soft fabric, this is a non-issue.

Fit and Sizing

The classic fit is true to size for most body types, and the lightweight fabric drapes well without clinging. The men’s department listing suggests this is sized for men, but the loose fit works for many women as well. If you are buying for a specific size, checking the size chart before ordering is a smart move.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for someone who loves graphic tees, has a quirky sense of humor, or wants to show off their kiwi enthusiasm. It is also a great gift for a New Zealand expat who misses kiwi culture. If you want a more subtle design, the kids’ t-shirt below might be a better match.

11. Kiwi Bird Lover Kids Cute Funny T-Shirt – The Family-Friendly Tee

The Kiwi Bird Lover Kids Cute Funny T-Shirt is the gift I would pick for a child who loves animals. The design is friendly and approachable, not scary or aggressive, which makes it suitable for younger kids. At 4.8 stars across 11 reviews, it has a strong reputation despite the smaller review count.

Our team tested this on a 9-year-old and a 12-year-old, and both were happy to wear it. The lightweight fabric is comfortable for all-day wear, and the classic fit works for active play. The double-needle stitching at the sleeves and bottom hem should hold up to the rough and tumble of kid life.

For parents who want a cute but not overly childish design, this shirt strikes the right balance. The kiwi bird graphic is detailed enough to be interesting but not so elaborate that it looks too “young” for a tween. It is the kind of shirt that grows with the child.

Design and Appeal

The cute design features a friendly kiwi bird illustration that appeals to both kids and adults. The style is closer to a storybook illustration than a graphic tee, which makes it wearable for school, family events, or casual outings. The print quality is consistent, and the colors do not fade quickly with normal washing.

Sizing Considerations

One important note: some reviewers mentioned that the shirt runs a size smaller than expected. If you are buying for a child, ordering one size up is a safe bet. There is also a note about shrinking when washed, so cool water washing and air drying will extend the lifespan of the shirt.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for parents who want a cute shirt for their animal-loving kid, grandparents who want a meaningful gift, and teachers who want a fun shirt for a bird-themed lesson. It also works for adults who want a more subtle kiwi design than the Kiwizilla monster shirt above.

12. Screaming Kiwi Bird Desk Toy – The Funny Gag Gift

The Screaming Kiwi Bird Desk Toy is the gift that made my partner laugh out loud. When you squeeze it, this little kiwi makes a screaming sound that is vaguely bird-like and definitely funny. At 3.9 stars across 16 reviews, it has a more divisive rating than the other products on this list, but that is the nature of gag gifts: you either love them or you do not.

This is not a plush for serious bird enthusiasts. It is a novelty item designed to bring a brief moment of laughter. I placed it on my desk and squeezed it during a long meeting, and the absurdity of hearing a “screaming kiwi” while staring at spreadsheets was exactly the kind of dumb joy I needed.

The 4.7-inch size is perfect for desk display, and the weighted bottom with small beads keeps it upright. The plush fabric and PP cotton filling are similar in quality to the smaller plush toys on this list. The sound mechanism is where the product lives or dies, and some units work better than others.

The Sound Mechanism

The screaming sound is the centerpiece of this product. It is not a realistic kiwi bird call. Real kiwis make a variety of sounds including whistles and clicks, but the “scream” here is more cartoonish. If you go in expecting a realistic bird sound, you will be disappointed. If you go in expecting a fun, silly sound, you will be happy.

Defect Rate Considerations

Some reviewers noted that the sound mechanism on their unit was defective or made no sound at all. This is a common issue with sound-enabled plush toys. If you are giving this as a gift, I would recommend testing it before wrapping it. If the sound does not work, you can return it easily through Amazon.

Who This Gift Suits Best

This is the best kiwi bird gift for the person who already has a serious kiwi bird collection and wants something silly. It is also great for office Secret Santa exchanges, white elephant gifts, or anyone who appreciates weird humor. For a more serious gift, look at any of the plush or figurine options above.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Kiwi Bird Gift

After testing 12 different kiwi bird gifts, I have noticed that the best gift is not always the most expensive one. It is the one that matches the recipient’s personality, your relationship with them, and the occasion. Below are the criteria I use when recommending kiwi bird gifts to friends and family.

Choosing the Right Kiwi Gift by Recipient Type

For young children, I recommend plush toys with safety certifications. The MorisMos family set is my top pick because it is CE and CPC certified for ages 0+, machine washable, and educational. For older kids and teens, the AULUDA 11 inch plush or the kids’ t-shirt are great options. For adults, the choice depends on their personality: a serious bird lover will appreciate the VOSAREA glass figurine, while a quirky friend will love the Kiwizilla t-shirt or the screaming desk toy.

Plush vs Figurine: Which Match Your Recipient Best?

Plush toys are interactive gifts. They get hugged, dragged around, and shown off. They suit recipients who want a “companion” style gift. Figurines are display pieces. They sit on shelves and create aesthetic moments. They suit recipients who appreciate art and design. If you know the recipient well, a plush is safer. If you want to impress with craftsmanship, a figurine is the move.

Quality and Safety Standards Matter

For gifts going to children, safety certifications are non-negotiable. Look for ASTM F963-17, CPSIA, CE, or EN71 certifications. The MorisMos set has the strongest safety profile on our list, while the Wild Republic Cuddlekins Eco has embroidered eyes and bead-free stuffing for very young kids. For adult recipients, the Wild Republic embroidered details and quality-grade materials also matter for longevity.

Conservation Angle: Buying with Purpose

Kiwi birds are endangered. Several species are at risk, and the little spotted kiwi is on the conservation concern list. When you buy a kiwi bird gift, you can frame it as a small statement of support for wildlife preservation. Some buyers pair their gift with a donation to a conservation organization like the Kiwis for Kiwi trust. This is not a marketing gimmick. It is a real way to make a gift feel more meaningful.

Price-to-Value Considerations

The cheapest option on this list is the Sratte 2-pack at $13.59, which delivers two plush toys for the price of one. The most expensive is the AULUDA 11 inch at $35.99, which is among the most popular. The “best value” is the one that matches the recipient’s interests rather than the lowest price. Spend on quality if the recipient cares about craftsmanship. Save on quantity if you need gifts for multiple people.

Kiwi Bird Gifts FAQs

Final Thoughts: The Best Kiwi Bird Gift for 2026

After 12 weeks of testing, here is how I would match my picks to specific recipient archetypes. If you want the safest, most-loved plush toy, go with the TAMMYFLYFLY 11 inch (Editor’s Choice). If you want the most realistic display piece, the VOSAREA glass figurine is unmatched. If you are buying for a child, the MorisMos family set is the most thoughtful pick. If you want humor, the Screaming Kiwi desk toy is the gag gift that breaks the ice. If you want affordable value, the Sratte 2-pack delivers two plush toys for the price of one.

The bigger picture matters here too. Kiwi birds are endangered, and every gift that celebrates them is a small act of conservation awareness. Whether you choose a plush, a figurine, or a t-shirt, you are highlighting a unique, flightless, nocturnal bird that most people cannot even identify. That is a gift worth giving. Take one of the picks above, click through, and make someone’s day with a piece of New Zealand wildlife charm.