Manukura is the Maori name for the first little white kiwi hatched in captivity, and the name of this gorgeous White Kiwi Soft Toy. Isn't she cute?!
Manukura hatched at New Zealand's national wildlife centre, Pukaha Mt Bruce. Manukura is not an albino kiwi, but rather an extremely rare white North Island Brown Kiwi. A genetic mutation.
Her surprise arrival last year was the highlight of Pukaha's 2010/11 kiwi breeding season, the most successful since 2003 when Kiwi were reintroduced into the wild there.
Meaning 'of chiefly status', Manukura was named by local Maori, Rangitane o Wairarapa, who saw her as a special gift and a sign of new beginnings.
Pukaha Mt Bruce is helping to save New Zealand's iconic but endangered kiwi bird, by establishing a growing Kiwi population in its forest. Your purchase of this toy helps to keep precious native birds safe by supporting Pukaha's intensive pest control programme.
The Manukura White Kiwi toy has lovely soft plush fur, and a light tan beak and feet. Press Manukura's tummy and you will hear authentic Kiwi sound. She sits approximately 6 1/4' (16cm) tall.
There is also a larger version of the White Kiwi Toy, standing approximately 18cm (7') tall.
A wonderful bird to add to your collection or to give to a youngster.
Footnote: Sadly, in December 2020 Manukura died after surgery to remove an impacted egg. Two other white kiwi birds continue her legacy.
