Mittens (cat) facts for kids

Mittens is a famous domestic cat who used to live in Wellington, New Zealand. He was known for wandering around the city's central areas. Mittens is like a cat explorer, often roaming up to 2 kilometers from his home! Many people in Wellington loved taking selfies with him. Sometimes, if people thought he was lost, Mittens would be taken to the SPCA or the police. But everyone there knew him well!

Mittens originally came from Auckland. He became a big social media star after he, his brother Latte (who has sadly passed away), and their owner Silvio Bruinsma moved to Wellington in 2017. Mittens even appeared on the 2018 Wellington Advent Calendar. This was an online calendar that counted down the days until Christmas. A staff member from the SPCA, Sam Thacker, once shared a friendly message. She asked people not to report Mittens or take him in. This was because they knew he was just out exploring.

Mittens: Wellington's Famous Cat

Mittens became a true local hero in Wellington. He was known for his friendly nature and his love for exploring the city. People often shared stories and pictures of their encounters with him online.

A Special Honor: Key to the City

On May 22, 2020, Mittens received a very special award. He was given the Key to the City of Wellington! This is a huge honor. It is usually given to important people who have done amazing things for the city. Famous people like Sir Peter Jackson and Sir Richard Taylor have also received this key.

Later in 2020, Mittens was featured in an exhibition. This special show was held at the Wellington Museum. He was also considered for the New Zealander of the Year award in August. This award celebrates people who have made a big difference in New Zealand.

A Brief Adventure

On February 5, 2021, something unusual happened. Mittens was seen being picked up and put into a car. Someone had taken him home, likely just to take pictures. Mittens' owner said this was a "massive error in judgement." It meant the person made a big mistake by taking Mittens without permission.

Thanks to the power of social media, the community quickly helped. Mittens was found very fast and returned safely to his home.

Moving On?

On November 10, 2021, news came out that Mittens might move. He was thinking about going back to his original home city of Auckland. Andy Foster, who was the mayor of Wellington at the time, commented on this. A mayor is the elected leader of a city. Mayor Foster said, "He does have the Key to the City so he's welcome back at any time." This showed how much Mittens was loved in Wellington.

See also

• List of individual cats