Famous Pukeko

It's the pukeko that's enjoying fifteen minutes of fame in New Zealand rather than a grouse. The native swamphen is the face of Genesis Energy's climate change adverts, prowling around turning off lights and claiming a monopoly on baths.


These bright blue birds with their hooked red beaks are found all over Auckland, from motorway verges to paddocks and parks. They run fast when not grubbing around in the grass and have incredibly big feet which they pick up high like prancing ponies. Best of all though is their perky white tail which, you won't be surprised to hear, reminds me of a rabbit.