A club member modelling one of the tartan hats
manufactured for the centennial show. At the time of this photo,
the hat was already 42 years old!
The Dunedin Bird Club was established around 1880, making it New Zealand’s oldest bird club and one of the longest-standing bird clubs
in the Southern Hemisphere. Since its founding, the club has played a significant role in shaping aviculture in the country,
including helping to establish the New Zealand Federation of Bird Clubs in 1932.
Bird showing itself has a rich international history dating back to the early 1800s in Europe, where enthusiasts would gather to exhibit
well-bred birds for judging based on colour, conformation, song, and overall condition. These events were originally rooted in social
and agricultural communities, later developing into structured competitions with codified breed standards and classes.
The tradition was brought to New Zealand by early settlers, where local clubs began forming throughout the 19th century — with Dunedin taking the lead.
The Dunedin Bird Club was a trailblazer in this movement: it was the first to import and show Red Factor Canaries in New Zealand and
also held the country’s first budgerigar exhibition. Over the decades, the club has remained a vibrant part of the avicultural landscape,
adapting with the times while preserving the values and traditions of the hobby.
The club, once known as the Dunedin Cage Bird Specialists Club, eventually streamlined its identity to become the Dunedin Bird Club,
reflecting a broader inclusivity of bird species and members. It currently ranks as the fifth-largest bird club in New Zealand and continues
to host a well-respected annual show — its 141st held in 2023.
A collection of historical medals and badges from past events.
Notably, the Dunedin Bird Club hosted the 52nd Grand National Show in 1984.
Past Members
Over the years, many members have contributed significantly to the Dunedin Bird Club and the broader bird-keeping community.
Their dedication and passion helped shape the club's history and culture.
Monty Wright – A respected breeder and long-time member, Monty played a vital role in the club’s development and served as President before passing in 2024.
Ray Briggs – Known for his organizational skills and contributions to club administration, Ray was instrumental in modernizing club operations until his passing in 2022.
Others – Many more past members have left lasting legacies through their dedication to the hobby, mentorship, and involvement in club activities.
We honour and remember these individuals whose passion and commitment have enriched the club over generations.
Monty’s Article
Monty’s lifelong passion for birds began at the age of thirteen and blossomed into a remarkable journey spanning over five decades. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to breeding a diverse range of birds—from budgerigars and bantams to canaries and exotic finches—always with a deep respect for the art and science of aviculture.
Over the years, Monty became a pillar of the Dunedin Bird Club community, serving as President and later continuing to support the club as a committee member. His leadership was marked by enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine commitment to fostering camaraderie among bird fanciers.
Monty’s vast experience extended to judging multiple species and managing shows throughout the South Island. His breeding aviaries were renowned, and he was particularly proud of his work with New Coloured canaries and Glosters, as well as his extensive zebra and Bengalese finch collections.
Beyond the birds themselves, Monty valued the friendships and knowledge-sharing that the hobby inspired. His articles often emphasized patience, careful observation, and the importance of community ties among fanciers.
Though Monty has passed on, his legacy remains a treasured resource and inspiration to all who knew him, reminding us that true passion and commitment leave a lasting mark.
Ray’s Article
Ray Briggs first discovered his passion for cage birds in the late 1960s, starting with caring for a few zebra finches and soon expanding to budgerigars and other species. His early success in breeding, often in a bustling family home full of noise and life, reflected his natural affinity and dedication to the hobby.
Joining the Dunedin Cage Bird Specialist Club, Ray quickly gravitated toward the vital behind-the-scenes work, applying his meticulous nature to show administration, club management, and secretarial duties. His pioneering spirit shone as he embraced evolving technologies—from manual typewriters to early computers—modernizing the way show schedules and records were managed.
Beyond his office contributions, Ray was a successful exhibitor, achieving Champion status with his budgerigars and roller canaries. His commitment to the club extended well beyond personal showing, as he supported numerous national shows throughout the South Island in key organizational roles.
Even after facing setbacks with his own birds, Ray’s dedication never waned. His greatest joy came from the friendships he built and the community he helped nurture. His forward-thinking approach led to the development and implementation of improved show programs and electronic entry forms, benefiting bird clubs across the region.
Ray passed away, leaving a legacy of professionalism, friendship, and innovation that continues to guide and inspire the Dunedin Bird Club and the wider bird-keeping community in 2025 and beyond.
Kath Tuna’s Article
Kath Tuna had a lifelong love for birds that touched all who knew her. About 25 years ago, she welcomed her first bird, a magpie, into her life and even built a special aviary to give it a safe home. Tragically, the magpie was lost to a cat—though Kath was quick to assure everyone it wasn’t her cat!
Her passion for birds blossomed when she was invited to join the Dunedin Bird Club at a Young Bird Show, even before she had any birds of her own. Over the years, Kath nurtured a diverse collection including zebra finches, barrabands, silver quail, and her beloved pet lorikeet, Noddy.
Known for her gentle spirit and keen eye, Kath found joy in the simple act of watching her birds, often remarking, “You can spend a lot of time just watching — very interesting.” Her quiet appreciation for these moments resonated deeply with fellow enthusiasts.
Kath’s practical wisdom was embodied in her timeless advice: Build a good aviary. This reflected her unwavering commitment to creating safe, nurturing environments for all birds under her care.
Though Kath is no longer with us, her warmth, dedication, and love for birds remain an enduring inspiration to the Dunedin Bird Club and its members.
Jim Hannan’s Article
Jim Hannan was a devoted and proud member of the Dunedin Bird Club, widely respected for his exceptional skill in breeding canaries. Over many years, he honed his craft with patience and dedication, producing vibrant, award-winning birds that earned admiration across the region.
Beyond his breeding expertise, Jim was a highly regarded judge at numerous bird shows, known for his fairness, keen eye, and profound knowledge of canaries and other species. His commitment helped uphold the club’s high standards and contributed significantly to the wider avicultural community.
Jim’s generous spirit extended beyond the show bench; he was a passionate mentor who eagerly shared his experience and wisdom with newcomers, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment within the club.
Though Jim is no longer with us, his legacy of excellence, fairness, and kindness continues to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him and benefiting from his contributions to the Dunedin Bird Club.
John’s Article
John played a vital and enduring role in the Dunedin Poultry, Pigeon, and Cage Bird Club, being present at the club’s very first meeting back in 1977. His dedication and hands-on support have been a cornerstone of the club’s success over the decades.
In the early years, John spent countless hours setting up cages and preparing for shows held at Maori Hill, ensuring everything ran smoothly and exhibitors had the best possible experience. His hard work behind the scenes often went unnoticed but was deeply appreciated by all.
John also earned a special place in South Island aviculture history as one of the first breeders to attempt producing Black Hamburgs. By crossing Hamburgs with Rosecombs, he laid the foundation for many of the Black Hamburg birds seen in the region today — a lasting legacy of innovation and passion.
On behalf of the Dunedin Poultry, Pigeon & Cage Bird Club, we extend our heartfelt thanks to John for his lifelong dedication and invaluable service to the fancy. His commitment has left an indelible mark on the club and the wider bird community.
