Here at Settlers Motel, Turangi - we believe in encouraging the wild life in and around our district.

At certain times of the year you can see the following Wildlife, they are either native to New Zealand or are protected in New Zealand.

Spur Winged Plover – for the last 2 years we have a pair of Plover’s that lay and raise their chicks here in the grounds. They nest on the ground, generally laying the eggs in July/August. Once hatched the chicks feed themselves and at times of extreme weather conditions take shelter, undermum or dad, for protection from the cold.

Tui – The trees planted are native Kowhia trees, in spring when in flower we have tui’s feeding on the nectar of these flowers. There can be anything up to 60 Tui in a tree at certain times during daylight hours.

California Quail – We currently have one nesting pair. They lay and hatch their eggs in scrubby areas and only bring the chicks out at dawn or dusk. The pair at Settlers Motel prefer evenngs to be out and about and are often seenNovemeber/December on dusk with the chicks in a line behind them.

(Warou) Swallows – We currently have 2 nesting pair of Swallows, 1 pair lay and raise their young in July – August, fledging in about September/November, with the second pair laying then raising the young November - December , with the chicks fledging in January/February. The nests that they build are a marvel and how they manage to raise up to 5 chicks in the nest is beyond me.

Ruru (Morepork) the unexpected -We had guests check in, on dusk, one autumn evening, a Morepork was discovered between the front grill and radiator of the car – it must have seen a tasty bug and got itself in – but could not get out. Phoning the DOC bird lady, we finally had to dismantle the front grill of the car to extract the Morepork, who after a few moments rest flew away unharmed. (The car grill was reassembled.)

(Korimako) Bell Bird -The planting of a Current Tree at Settlers, has brought the Bell Bird into our backyard. It drinks the nectar from the flowers in Spring and then returns in late Summer to feed on the dried berries.

Pīwakwaka (Fantail) -Theyflit around most of the year. There are several different myths associated with the Fantail, happy for you to come and chat with me about these lovely creatures.