How the battered bird got into the culvert in early August remains a mystery, but he owes his survival to two roading inspectors from infrastructure company Downer, and the combined efforts of rangers from the Department of Conservation’s New Plymouth office, the New Plymouth Veterinary Group and veterinary specialists at Massey University’s Wildbase Hospital in Palmerston North.
Downer Junior Network Inspector Logan Turner was with his colleague Isaak Ryan inspecting culverts on behalf of Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency on State Highway 3 near Tongaporutu. At first glance Isaak Ryan didn’t spot the beleaguered bird, but the pair were surprised when a second look revealed the kiwi and its plight.
“It was the first time I’d seen a kiwi in real life, so it was pretty cool. I have never come across wildlife while inspecting culverts before,” Logan Turner says.
After contacting their supervisor, the two men called the DOC emergency hotline
