The pūkeko is probably one of the most recognised native birds in New Zealand with its distinctive colourings and habit of feeding on the ground. ... The subspecies found in New Zealand (Porphyrio porphyrio melanotus) is thought to have landed here around a thousand years ago from Australia.

How did pukeko get to New Zealand?

Establishment in New Zealand

According to Millener (1981), it invaded from Australia less than 1,000 years ago. ... East Coast Māori say they came to New Zealand on the Horouta canoe which arrived about 24 generations ago. The Aotea tribe of the West Coast say that their ancestors introduced pukeko in the Aotea canoe.

Are Pukekos protected in NZ?

They were once spread over mainland New Zealand but are now restricted to Great Barrier and a small population in Northland. The pukeko is not the first native to be culled by the department. ... Pukeko are protected nationally, but can be shot for sport during the shooting season.