This is one of New Zealand’s iconic birds, the Weka (WEH-kuh). The weka doesn’t fly and it isn’t shy. They’ll walk right up to you, especially if they think you’ve got something they might want to eat. They are not found in all parts of New Zealand. There is a small group of them living and thriving on Mou Waho Island, in Lake Wanaka. The island is a short boat ride from the city of Wanaka, and well worth your time.
The weka is about the size of a chicken. They are 3-6 times larger than banded rails, which are considered their nearest flying relatives. Weka are currently classified as a threatened species. There are four subspecies of weka. The one pictured here is a Buff Weka. The “buff” would seem to be a description of its color rather than its physique.