The spelling of the word "Bulford Kiwi" can be confusing for those unfamiliar with New Zealand culture. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈbʌlfəd ˈkiwi/. "Bulford" refers to the location where the iconic "Kiwi" statue was created by New Zealand soldiers during World War I. "Kiwi" refers to the native bird of New Zealand, known for its small size, brown coloring, and long beak. Interestingly, the term "kiwi" also colloquially refers to New Zealanders themselves. The spelling of this word draws on both Māori and English linguistic and cultural influences.
The term "Bulford Kiwi" refers to a large, geoglyphic depiction of a kiwi bird found on Beacon Hill, near Bulford Camp, Wiltshire, England. It measures approximately 420 feet (128 meters) in length and is made up of chalk lines filled with gravel to create contrast. The term "kiwi" refers to a flightless bird native to New Zealand, recognized as a national symbol of the country.
The Bulford Kiwi is believed to have been created in 1919 by soldiers stationed at the Bulford Camp, which was used as a training ground during World War I and World War II. The soldiers constructed the kiwi as an expression of their New Zealand identity and to serve as a morale-boosting symbol during their time away from home.
Over the years, the Bulford Kiwi has been restored and maintained by various military personnel and local authorities to preserve its cultural and historical significance. It has become a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from around the world who are interested in exploring New Zealand's connection to the United Kingdom through military history.
Today, the Bulford Kiwi stands as a testament to the creativity, resilience, and camaraderie of the soldiers who constructed it, as well as a symbol of the enduring relationship between New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military and an emblem of national pride for both New Zealanders and the local community in Bulford.
The word "Bulford Kiwi" is derived from the names of its two components: "Bulford" and "kiwi".
"Bulford" refers to the location where the figure is located, which is Bulford Camp in Wiltshire, England. It is a British Army base that was established during the First World War.
The term "kiwi" is used because the figure itself is in the shape of a kiwi bird, which is a native bird of New Zealand. The kiwi bird is significant because New Zealand troops were stationed at Bulford Camp during the First World War, and they were the ones who created the figure.
Therefore, the term "Bulford Kiwi" combines the location where the figure is located with the shape and symbolism of the kiwi bird.