Also known as the blue heron, blue crane or matuka-moana, this bird is self-introduced from Australia so is considered a native.

A heron is seen here on the margin of Lake Dunstan feeding in the weed beds. The lake level had been allowed to drop about 1m as a part of a program of weed control, so there was more than normal exposed weed at this time (Jan - Feb 2012).

When in breeding plumage the heron has long feathers on its head, neck and back, as seen by Karen below.