Kea are the world’s only alpine parrot, highly intelligent and famous for their cheeky, often naughty behaviour. They are, however, endangered, and while predators are the main reason for this, they are also very vulnerable to lead poisoning from lead-head nails on iron roofs.
Saving Wānanga is the true story of a kea from Arthur’s Pass. Wānanga was being studied by a kea researcher when it became obvious that he was very sick. Testing revealed that he had lead poisoning, and so he was taken to an animal hospital in Christchurch. Happily, he was treated and recovered, and was taken back to the mountains where he was released.
The book is author Kris Herbert's debut children's book. The science journalist and storyteller's love for New Zealand's unique flora and fauna is evident in the book, and she takes a real-life story and turns it into an accessible and age-appropriate story. It's a heart-warming story that focuses on an important conservation issue. Herbert passes on little gems of information to the reader, making this an interesting and informative read.
Illustrated by Dїne, Wānanga's playful and cheeky nature is brought to life in rich colour and detail. Dїne has also done an incredible job bringing Arthur's Pass to life - the viaduct and rock shelter brought back a rush of homesickness as someone who used to call the Coast home. The wee illustrated map at the back of the book is a clever touch.
Saving Wānanga is a charming and hopeful story of survival and conservation in action.
Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell
Potton & Burton