Pets with a difference at Kihikihi

“What does Kihikihi mean?”, we asked the rellies when we visited them on our trip north.  It is certainly a strange name, and they would be sure to know, we reasoned.  Sure enough, they did.  It is the Maori word for cicada – and that would explain why we passed a huge concrete cicada at the edge of town.  We did wonder what on earth it was, but sadly didn’t stop to photograph it.  Never mind, we snapped this sign instead.

Welcome to Kihikihi – cicada town

Our nephew Shane, his wife Kirstie and their two growing boys live in the lovely little town.  Previously we had only driven through before, so this is the first time we have stopped and looked around.  Shane and Kirstie invited us for a BBQ meal in the evening, so that gave us plenty of time to catch up with all the family news.

Shane cooking up a storm

The two boys have very unusual pets, and brought them out to show us.  Liam proudly showed us Tornedo, his bearded dragon.  He hopes to buy a mate for Tornedo shortly, and end up with a few baby dragons.  Liam encouraged me to “touch him if you want”, as I gingerly extended my finger out to stroke him.  Mmm, felt very rough, rather like touching sandpaper.  Both boys were very impressed when I told them I had once stroked a tuatara – a New Zealand living fossil!

Liam with Tornedo

Younger brother Dalton came out carrying Lizzie, a blue tongued skink.  Lizzie looked too much like a rather fat snake (with tiny legs) to me, and I could see me having nightmares if I handled her.  Her tongue is indeed blue, a very dark shade of blue which she flicks in and out. 

Dalton with Lizzie

The family also have three cute little Chihuahuas, three generations and all girls.  The older one made a beeline for my lap and settled down quite comfortably.

  Liam, Shane and Dalton

It was great to catch up with the family, and thanks so much for our delicious BBQ meal.