Bells rang throughout Dunedin yesterday, marking the homecoming of an albatross (toroa) to the mainland.
He has had the same mate throughout his breeding years, and together they have been a highly successful pair.
The first returner of the season was KM, a 30-year-old male who has raised 12 chicks since 2003, the Royal Albatross Centre said in a social media post.
Rev Dr Andrea McDougall rings the bell yesterday. PHOTO: STEPHEN JAQUIERY
The first returner of the season was KM, a 30-year-old male albatross. PHOTO: SHARYN BRONI
The Rev Dr Andrea McDougall also had a first - she had never rung the St Paul’s Cathedral heavy bell but managed to swing it with the aid of some thick gloves.
Bells also rang out at Opoho Presbyterian Church - its minister the Rev Clare Lind said the youngest person to ring the church’s bell was 3 and the oldest was well into their 80s.
She said she was very pleased with attendance.
About 25 people joined celebrations in Opoho, numbers bolstered by children on school holidays.
The occasion was a good way to connect with the community and welcome the toroa back, she said.
Cami Lynn, 8, of Orewa in Auckland, joined bell ringers at Opoho Presbyterian Church. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH
