An extremely rare lesser frigate bird has caused a flap amongst Kiwi bird watchers after its arrival in February, pushed from faraway shores by Cyclone Gita.
The bird was weak and weighing only 400 grams when she was found on Auckland's Muriwai beach.
"We had a lot of people who offered us donations so they could come and see the bird," NZ Bird Rescue manager Karen Simpson says.
"But because it was such an unusual bird for us to have here in the centre, we were very cautious about ensuring it was kept in isolation."
The tropical seabird was released after being nursed back to health over six weeks.
This type of bird is destined for flying and home is likely to be somewhere in the Pacific Islands.
"When she spread her wings you could see she was ready to go.
"It was like you go girl, this is your day," Ms Simpson said.
"This is the best part of the job.
"Actually seeing a bird that's come in to centre, that you didn't think would make it through the night."
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