North Island Brown Kiwi

Apteryx mantelli is the brown kiwi native to the North Island. It differs from rowi and southern brown kiwi in genetics, range and details of plumage and call. It is flightless, shaggy brown and long-billed, with nostrils close to the bill tip. Females are larger, while males give a higher multi-note whistle.

Populations occur from Northland to the central and lower North Island. They use native forest, plantations, scrub and rough farmland where predators are controlled. Kiwi probe soil for earthworms and other invertebrates and also take fruit. They are mostly nocturnal and defend territories with calls.

The New Zealand classification is Not Threatened because it is conservation dependent. Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari and Trounson Kauri Park offer guided or chance night encounters.