I recently spent a few weeks in New Zealand, mainly around Napier on the North Island. I walked around the wetland area, known as Ahuriri Estuary. Whilst it is better known for its migratory birds, waders and shore birds, on two occasions I observed these Sacred Kingfishers. They are also known by their Māori name, Kōtare. One day there were four of them fishing and scavenging from the walkways and shrubs near the water, and the other time two solo birds perched higher in the trees. They are beautiful birds and a joy to watch. I hope my photos do them justice.
