The breeding season is steaming ahead and the island is buzzing with activity day and night. There are now 20 chicks being raised on the island – many by foster parents – the eggs of inexperienced young mums being given to older birds for safe-keeping. Six are being looked after by the kakapo team and doing well so far.

The 100 benchmark has comfortably been surpassed, with 111 birds now in existence. The more chicks the fewer hours sleep for nestminders. Chick warming duties can require two to five stints at the nest while mums search for food to address increasing demands from growing offspring. Squirming, fluffy chicks are carefully covered in a tiny ‘electric blanket’ and the mother’s location is carefully monitored in anticipation of her return.

Despite sleep deprivation, three days of supreme sunshine and snatched opportunities for fun on the beach have kept the team sane. Who could complain when reflecting on their luck at getting the chance to play a small part in the survival of this endearing species? Not me.