Otorohanga is home to a giant pukeko, and two giant kiwis, and a kiwiana arcade. This arcade is filled with displays containing all things Kiwi: pavlova, Cheesedale cheese, No.8 wire, All Blacks – I could go on but you get the idea! It is also home to the Kiwi House, a small native species sanctuary. There are native birds, lizards and two nocturnal houses. Today, I saw my first kiwi. Not stuffed, in a cabinet or on film, but there right in front of us snuffling around for bugs and grubs. They are just amazing creatures and thrilling to get to see three of them!!

After getting over the thrill of the kiwis, we went on the hunt for giant pukekos and kiwis!!

Te Kuiti – home of sheep sheering and Colin ‘Pinetree’ Meads, legendary All Black. It’s a quaint little town with BIG claims to fame. Which means statues to their rugby hero and a sheepsheerer.