Paekakariki sisters River and Issie Kennedy-Martell, with their pet thrush Hop, by the birdcage at the Reefton races yesterday.
The sisters found the bird when it was tiny, lying injured and abandoned in the middle of the street and ever since have cared for it every day.
Unable to fly, drink or feed itself, Hop is now part of the family and goes on holiday with them, including to Reefton.
"He goes wherever we go because he can't fly or care for himself, so he's on holiday with us," Issie said.
"He's amazing and very happy, chirps and whistles and loves being part of the family."
