BIRDS across the North Island enjoyed an excellent showing at the 69th Whakatāne Bird Club Show.

Over 430 birds flew into Kawerau for the annual Whakatāne Bird Show on Matariki weekend.

Show manager Barri Bowden said the Kawerau Town Hall was filled with birds for showing, as well as an additional 100 birds for sale.

“The show was a great success, but due to Matariki, we unfortunately, had hardly any public in. This meant the sales were a bit slow, but show-wise, exhibitors were happy,” he said.

He said each year the date of the Whakatāne Bird Club Show moves a week, so it will likely not coincide with Matariki Weekend next year.

He said now was a great time for anyone interested in the birding community to get in contact with the club leaders, Vera and Dave Pawson.

“As of August, breeding season starts again. If you want to get into birds, now’s the time. We'll have a lot of birds for sale, and a lot of knowledge and experience to share with newcomers,” Mr Bowden said.