Second Kokako Release | Ark in the Park

Introduction to the locals

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:49:58 +1200

Photograph: Mathias Riemenschneider

First meal

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:49:29 +1200

Transported!

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:48:32 +1200

Welcome gifts

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:47:14 +1200

John Sumich, Chairman of the Ark Management Committee waits, holding organic Fair Trade bananas, donated by Kokako Coffee. Behind him stands ARC ranger at the Cascades, Rikki Bennett, who accompanied the ceremony with traditional maori flute music.

Welcome ceremony

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:46:16 +1200

Rangi Brown, representing the birds' "home" hapu, Ngati Manuhiri, addresses the gathering, who included Eru Thompson of Te Karawau a Maki, ARC representatives Shona Myers and Rikki Bennet, Suzanne Naylor of Watercare, John Staniland (President of Waitakere Forest and Bird), and John Sumich (Chairman of the Ark in the Park Management Committee)

Welcome party

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:41:44 +1200

Ark volunteers have been instrumental in providing the protected environment of the Ark, and will monitor the movements and progress of the new birds.

First meal

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:39:29 +1200

Watercare representative Suzanne Naylor offers a first drink; shelter provided by Eru Thompson of Te Kawarau a Maki

Photograph: Mathias Riemenschneider

Celebrity Bird

Mon, 31 May 2010 17:38:43 +1200