Roroa: Great Spotted Kiwi

The Alpine Guardian

The roroa, or great spotted kiwi, is our largest kiwi, known for its beautifully speckled feathers and haunting call echoing through the South Island’s wild places.

This special taonga faces ongoing threats from predators and habitat loss, so conservation programmes, including those supported by Willowbank, help give chicks a strong start before heading back to the wild.

Roroa Facts

Found In

New Zealand

Roroa are found in forests of the South Island, particularly in protected reserves and predator-free areas.

Habitat

Dense Forrest

They prefer dense native forests, regenerating bush, and scrubland, with plenty of ground cover for shelter during the day.

Diet

Omnivore

Roroa are omnivores, feeding mainly on worms, insects, and other invertebrates, with occasional berries or seeds.

Behaviour

Nocturnal

Nocturnal and territorial, they use their keen sense of smell to forage at night. Pairs may maintain long-term territories, communicating with distinctive calls.

Size

45-55 cm

Adults stand about 45–55 cm tall and weigh 2.3–3.9 kg, making them the largest kiwi species.

Life Span

25-50 years

They can live 25–50 years in the wild when protected from predators.

Conservation Status

Vulnerable

Roroa are classified as Vulnerable. Introduced predators such as stoats, dogs, and ferrets pose a significant threat, making predator control and conservation programmes essential for their survival.

Willowbank Location

Kiwi House

Allow your eyes time to adjust to the low light when visiting our nocturnal kiwi house in the natives area of the Reserve. Photography is not permitted inside the Kiwi Nocturnal House.