A Kākāpō Mug from Karen James

My friend and neighbour Karen James made me a Kākāpō mug. It has a charismatic Kākāpō, four Kākāpō chicks (in celebration of the 2026 breeding season) and even has some rimu fruit! I love it so much.

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Karen's attention to detail is remarkable - she captured the distinctive features of these critically endangered parrots perfectly. The adult Kākāpō on the mug shows that characteristic owl-like face and moss-green plumage that makes them so distinctive among New Zealand's native birds.

The four chicks represent the success of the 2026 breeding season, which has been particularly encouraging for conservationists working to save this species from extinction. Each chick is rendered with its own personality, from curious to sleepy, capturing the playful nature of young Kākāpō.

What really delighted me was the inclusion of rimu fruit - a crucial part of the Kākāpō diet and a key trigger for their unusual breeding cycle. The rimu tree produces fruit only every few years, and when it does, it signals to Kākāpō that conditions are right for raising chicks. Karen even got the texture and shape of the fruit just right.

This mug has quickly become my favourite drinking vessel. There's something special about starting the day with a cup of coffee alongside these charming birds, especially knowing the conservation story behind them. It's a daily reminder of the incredible work being done to protect New Zealand's unique wildlife.

The mug joins a small collection of Kākāpō-themed items I've accumulated over the years, but this one holds a special place as a handmade gift from a talented friend who clearly understands my appreciation for these remarkable birds.