Meanwhile, somewhere in Aotearoa a giant moa-bird attack on a tourist was caught on camera. Man lucky to escape.
"People come to New Zealand to view the beautiful scenery but they need to be aware of the dangers. I have no sympathy for those who don't adequately prepare for unexpected moa attacks."
"Yup, its amazing that there aren't even moa of these reported. Moa repellant kits are available at hardware stores (or climb a tree)"
"I got bitten once, the problem is that most people just don't give a flock."
"Coming to NZ for two or three weeks. Never heard of this bird, picture looks like a photoshop to me. Only thing that's giving me pause is that y'all's ain't the trolling type and I'm just ignorant about NZ in general. (I just read some comments, ain't no joke!)"
"Most of the comments are bullshit. I've never been attacked by one and I've been tramping loads of times. Maybe most people do something to aggravate them but honestly I've only ever met really timid ones that seemed more scared of me than I was of them. I guess it's best to be cautious though."
"It depends on what time of year it is. When it's around Oct-Dec, they're all riled up 'cause that's their mating season. I certainly wouldn't approach one then, even with a beer."
"I've seen one here in Auckland, out in the Western suburbs. It was chasing a Labrador in one of the local dog parks... the poor dog was freaking out."
"My friend had a scooter stolen by one. Must have been attracted to the sheepskin cover on his seat."
"They're not everywhere but trampers should carry hand held sirens, like rape alarms, to scare them off."
"I've never seen a Moa in real life. That is really fascinating! Did the tramper make it out alive? I hope so."
"My brother in law was tramping when he lost his pack and broke his ankle. A moa stumbled upon him, and Jack began to befriend it with a pile of tasty plants, in an attempt to use it as a ride home. That moa chased his ass right back to his car, broken ankle and all."
"The tragic thing is that this could have been easily prevented. Moa are known to be repelled by the smell of rotting lamb meat. Just attach a manky old lamb chop to your kit."
