Fans Flock to See Famous Kakapo

This was originally posted on the Dominion Post website.

One of only 131 kakapo in the world, Sirocco is being flown to Wellington by the Conservation Department on a special assignment as part of his role as conservation spokesbird.An audience with everyone’s favourite frisky parrot will cost about twice as much as going to the movies but that has not stopped hundreds from booking their tickets.

He will be using his charms to educate Wellingtonians on the importance of the Kakapo Recovery Programme from September 29 until October 31 at Zealandia.

Sirocco is perhaps best known for attempting to mate with BBC zoologist Mark Cawardine’s head, but he seems to win fans everywhere he goes.

Zealandia marketing manager Peter Laurenson said about 500 people had already booked online. “We have had a lot of interest and are hopeful we will have more members by the end of this process.”

The sanctuary has more than 12,000 members and is encouraging more people to sign up for membership to access Sirocco at a discounted rate. The tour includes 25 minutes with the famous bird as well as an audio-visual presentation.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

Zealandia member prices: adult, $29.62; child, $14.63; family, $73.88. Non-member prices: adult, $39.50; child $19.50; family, $98.50.