It's been a whole week since I spotted an unusual visitor to Waikawa Beach and I assumed it had left. But today I again spotted the kōtuku white heron by the river and was able to get quite close. Such beautiful birds. 🐦

Very large white bird on the riverbank with ducks in the water nearby.
Very large white bird on the riverbank with neck folded and beak lifted a little.
Very large white bird on the riverbank with beak open.
Very large white bird on the riverbank with neck extended.