The annual Bird of the Year competition in New Zealand has become the center of a global public relations battle, as US chat show host John Oliver has thrown his support behind one of the candidates. The competition aims to raise awareness about the endangered native bird species in the country, and this year’s winner will be crowned Bird of the Century in honor of the event organizer’s founding. Oliver’s endorsement of the pŪteketeke bird on his show Last Week Tonight has ignited a surge in votes and controversy.
The involvement of a high-profile celebrity like Oliver in the New Zealand election has drawn both praise and criticism. On one hand, his campaign has generated significant attention and increased voter participation. Within 24 hours of his endorsement, there were already 50,000 additional votes, putting pressure on the website hosting the competition. Nicola Toki, the head of the environmental conservation organization running the event, acknowledged the impact of Oliver’s support. However, some argue that Oliver’s interference in a foreign election undermines the democratic process.
Oliver’s team has highlighted unique qualities of the pŪteketeke bird, including its quirky behaviors and dwindling population. To amplify his campaign, Oliver has gone to great lengths, erecting billboards in different countries and even dressing up as the bird on fellow comedian Jimmy Fallon’s show. The reference to the Lord of the Rings movies, which were filmed in New Zealand, adds an extra layer of humor and appeal to fans of the franchise.
Despite the surge in support, there is now a debate surrounding the bird’s eligibility for candidacy. The pŪteketeke, also known as the Australasian crested grebe, is found in both New Zealand and Australia. Critics argue that this cross-border presence should disqualify it from competing as a New Zealand bird, raising questions about the competition’s rules and criteria.
This controversy is not the first for the Bird of the Year competition. Last year, a ban was imposed on the kÄkÄpÅ, the world’s fattest parrot, after winning the competition twice in the past. In 2021, a bat surprisingly claimed the title of Bird of the Year, causing further astonishment. These past incidents have fueled discussions about the fairness and integrity of the competition.
As the voting deadline approaches, the outcome of the competition remains uncertain. It is clear that John Oliver’s involvement has significantly impacted public engagement and raised awareness about New Zealand’s endangered bird species. The international debate surrounding his support for the pŪteketeke bird has shed light on the complexities of foreign intervention in local elections. Ultimately, the Bird of the Year competition serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the need to protect these vulnerable species for future generations.
