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Bulford Kiwi Restoration: Reviving an Historic Monument

  A Symbolic Restoration

A piece of history etched into the Wiltshire landscape has been given a new lease of life thanks to a collaborative endeavor between the UK Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), the New Zealand High Commission, and dedicated volunteers. The historic 'Bulford Kiwi,' a monumental chalk carving, has been meticulously restored on Beacon Hill, overlooking the village of Bulford on Salisbury Plain.   A Soldier's Legacy in Chalk The 'Bulford Kiwi' holds its origins in the aftermath of World War I, as New Zealand Expeditionary Force soldiers awaited their journey back home. Eager to leave their mark on the British countryside, these soldiers carved a striking kiwi, a symbol of New Zealand, into the chalky terrain of Beacon Hill.  

A Joint Effort to Preserve History

The restoration project brought together the DIO, the New Zealand High Commission, local conservation groups, Landmarc, and enthusiastic volunteers from the 3rd (UK) Division Signal Regiment and Operation Nightingale. To ensure the kiwi's historical significance endures, an RAF Chinook helicopter delivered an impressive 100 tonnes of chalk, meticulously arranged by the dedicated volunteers across the partnership groups. The site came alive with a traditional Waiata song and Kukuri dance.  

A Connection with the 'Trench All Blacks'

As the Rugby World Cup saw the All Blacks prepare to face Italy, the DIO shed light on the historic link between the soldiers responsible for the 'Bulford Kiwi' and the 'Trench All Blacks.' This remarkable team of New Zealand soldiers won 'The Somme Cup,' a rugby division specially organized for those engaged in the war. The very soldiers who created the iconic monument had stood shoulder to shoulder with the 'Trench All Blacks' during the Battle of Messines—a battle often hailed as one of the war's most successful.   A Monument of National and International Importance Richard Osgood, DIO's senior archaeologist and co-founder of Operation Nightingale, highlighted the significance of the 'Bulford Kiwi.' He pointed out that, despite its creation in 1919, which makes it one of the youngest scheduled monuments, we cannot underestimate its national and international importance. Its ties to the New Zealand Armed Forces are profound, and the annual re-chalking serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War I.  

From a Kiwi's Eye View

For Flight Lieutenant James Patrick, who piloted the Chinook helicopter during the restoration, it was a special task, given his participation in an exchange program from New Zealand. He shared his newfound perspective on the monument, stating, "It’s only since I came over to the UK on the exchange program that I found out more about the Bulford Kiwi – I did know there was a chalked kiwi in the UK, but that was about it. I’ve flown over it a few times, which is interesting because it looks totally different from the air than it does from land."   Patrick also acknowledged the historical significance, saying, "The fact that it was made by New Zealand soldiers waiting to go home after the First World War just makes it special. Then knowing I’m involved in restoring it, it’s just awesome, to be honest. We have these relationships, and things like this are perfect for us to keep up those bonds."  

A Shared History, A Shared Mission

Shannon Austin, the New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner, expressed her delight at being part of the restoration project. She said, "What a fantastic day it has been meeting and working with so many dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers. The Bulford Kiwi is well-loved and has a long history that links the UK and New Zealand. It has been a real pleasure to be involved in helping to protect and restore this significant monument."   Sources: THX News, Ministry of Defence & Defence Infrastructure Organisation. Read the full article