Tokoeka: Southern Brown kiwi

The Feisty Forager

Feisty and full of attitude, the Tokoeka kiwi roams its territory with purpose, rustling through leaf litter in search of a tasty find.

Small but mighty, this remarkable taonga faces ongoing threats from habitat loss and predators, which is why protecting its future matters more than ever.

Tokoeka facts

Found In

New Zealand

Tokoeka are found in the West Coast forests and Fiordland regions of the South Island, as well as in predator-free sanctuaries where conservation programmes support their survival.

Habitat

Dense Forrest

They prefer dense native forest, scrubland, and regenerating bush, with thick ground cover to shelter from predators and the elements.

Diet

Omnivore

Tokoeka are omnivores, feeding mainly on earthworms, insects, spiders, and occasional berries or seeds.

Behaviour

Nocturnal

Tokoeka are nocturnal and territorial, often living and foraging alone or in mated pairs. They communicate with distinctive calls and maintain clearly defined territories.

Size

45-50 cm

Adults measure 45–50 cm tall and weigh 2–3.5 kg, with some regional variation between populations.

Life Span

25-50 years

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

Conservation Status

At Risk – Recovering

Classified as At Risk – Recovering, Tokoeka populations are carefully managed through predator control and breeding programmes. Some birds are relocated to predator-free sanctuaries to ensure their long-term survival.

Willowbank Location

Kiwi House

Give your eyes a moment to adjust as you step into our low-light kiwi habitat. These special nocturnal taonga are sensitive to noise and movement, so please move gently and keep voices low. Photography isn’t permitted, as light and flashes can disturb them.