The Cry of the Tui - Bird Watchers Delight...
There is a reason that the fourth largest Kauri Tree is called Te Tangi o Te Tui. (The Cry of the
Tui). Every year when the micro valley in Puketi Forest that is home to this mighty Kauri Tree
bursts into flower, the bird grapevine goes mad! The Tawari tree that shares the valley with the
Kauri Giant flowers in mid to late November – quite late compared to other trees. The sweet
nectar draws the infamous Tui from miles around to supp the abundant food. Being territorial
birds, the valley becomes a boiling pot of protective Tui who fiercely claim and protect their
patch in a cacophony of Tui calls. “It’s a wonderful display that is a privilege for ardent bird
watchers and novice nature seekers alike to see and especially hear” says Chief Guide for
Adventure Puketi Ian Candy – “the birds scrapping over their chosen nectar patch is hugely
entertaining and very very noisy!”
Adventure Puketi is looking to run special tours into valley of Te Tangi O Te Tui to time with the
late spring flowering. They are taking registrations of interest, and will set a date once the
flowering is due to commence. (Mid-late November). A must for bird watchers, tui fans and
forest enthusiasts as it will show you Tui behavior like never seen before! The tour will feature
the Tui display as well as some of the worlds largest Kauri Trees and you visit the Takapau Kauri
and the fourth largest Kauri – Te Tango O Te Tui.
Expressions of interest here