Nz Bird Symbolism. The bird became the emblem of the New Zealand Wildlife Service in 1957 a reflection of its popularity and in 1990 the kōtuku was the official symbol of the Treaty of Waitangis 150th anniversary because like all New Zealanders the herons origins are in other lands. The name of the bird Kiwi comes from the language of Maori indigenous NZ people.
The explorer Captain Cook wrote of its song it seemed to be like small bells most exquisitely tuned. The New Zealand bellbird also known by its Māori names korimako and makomako is a passerine bird endemic to New Zealand. But it is unique.
Silver fern Cyathera dealbata.
The 1902 flag is a symbol for the people of New Zealand its Realm and the Government. The bird itself is a taonga treasure to Maori who have strong cultural spiritual and historic associations with kiwi. The feathers of certain birds were used as adornment for high-born people particularly plumes worn in the hair. The explorer Captain Cook wrote of its song it seemed to be like small bells most exquisitely tuned.