2 Dollars - Charles III 1st Portrait - Nesting Rowi

The rowi — Apteryx rowi — was only formally recognized as a distinct kiwi species in 2003, separated from the broader brown kiwi grouping after genetic analysis confirmed its divergence. It is now one of the rarest birds on Earth, with the wild population numbering in the hundreds and concentrated almost entirely on the Ōkārito wetlands of the South Island's West Coast. New Zealand Post has consistently used its bullion and collector series to document endangered native fauna, and the rowi's inclusion here reflects its precarious conservation status rather than any ceremonial occasion. This is the first portrait of Charles III to appear on this particular wildlife series.