What is the national bird of New Zealand?

The national bird of New Zealand is the kiwi, which is an iconic and flightless bird native to the country. The kiwi holds significant cultural importance for New Zealanders, often symbolizing the nation's identity. Its unique characteristics, such as its small size, long beak, and brown, fuzzy feathers, contribute to its distinctive nature. The kiwi is a nocturnal bird that feeds on insects and worms, which further emphasizes its unique place in New Zealand’s ecosystem.

In contrast, while eagles and penguins are notable birds, they do not represent New Zealand specifically. The mention of kiwi fruit is misleading in this context, as it refers to a different subject entirely—the fruit is named after the kiwi bird due to its brown, fuzzy skin resembling the bird's feathers, but it is not a bird itself. Understanding the kiwi’s role as a symbol of New Zealand enhances appreciation for the country's biodiversity and cultural heritage.