Te Anau, New Zealand: Takahe Statue

Most cities have major statues of people in their prime viewing spots. Te Anau has a tribute to a bird. Priorities sure can be different.

In this case, the bird is the takahē, a relatively rare and flightless bird that inhabits the region. The great part of the story is that most scientists thought this species had become extinct. Then in 1948, some popped up in the mountains of Southern New Zealand. They remain on the scene today. 

You can find some at the local bird sanctuary. In the meantime, a large replica welcomes visitors to the lakefront area of the town.  Others are in the wild ... and let's not mess up this second chance to keep them there.