In 2005 I wrote a children’s non-fiction book called Operation Nest Egg: Saving New Zealand’s Kiwi. Reed Publishing released it in 2006 and it stayed in print for several years until all the copies sold out.

Not long after the books release, Department of Conservation advertised for a volunteer to co-ordinate the kiwi releases on Motuora Island. Sometimes when you write a book you realise you don’t just want to write about it – you want to give something back too.

I phoned Liz at DOC and told her I’d do it. Since then, from September through to February once a week I organise the boat, who will go on the trip, check that everyone has observed the safety regulations, give the talk on the island, and then help release the three week chick into a burrow. I’ve loved the work.

In 2012, I realised it was time to update my children’s book but this time I wanted to include a story about how a kiwi chick is raised in the Operation Nest Egg programme.

When Steve and Ange approached me from Pixel Book to publish some children’s non-fiction e-books I knew it was the best format for this children’s book. The reader can enjoy the story but also learn about the programme saving the kiwi; facts about the kiwi itself, the sanctuaries, kiwi centres, and where you can see them.

We’ve included video footage of a kiwi chick release and at the end children’ can play a game of catching the predators and setting free the kiwi. Bruce Potter’s life-like artwork is exceptional.