Paddy Freany

This kea was banded as a fledgling in Arthur's Pass village during March 2026. He flew in with another 20 or so young birds in March. This is the first time since about 2022 that so many kea have flocked into the village at once! The bands on this kea are 'EO' - for Education Outdoors, a tribute to the Arthur's Pass Outdoor Education Centre that thousands of New Zealand youngsters visit every year and learn about nature, the National Park, and of course - all about kea! A gentleman named Paddy Freeny founded the Centre. Having an Environmental Centre in Arthur's Pass was Paddy's brainchild and initiative and he ran it for a long time. Blurb from Paddy Freany's quote to come...