Story: Herons

Herons in New Zealand

Herons in New Zealand

White herons breed in colonies, and there is only one colony in New Zealand, on the Waitangiroto River in Westland. When not breeding, they are found near lowland waterways around the country.

Reef herons live around most of New Zealand’s rocky coasts, where they also breed.

White-faced herons live and breed throughout New Zealand wherever habitat is suitable.

Nankeen night herons are known to breed at only one site, on the Whanganui River. Most recent sightings of non-breeding birds of this species have also been in this area.

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How to cite this page:

Gerard Hutching, 'Herons - Other herons', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/map/6432/herons-in-new-zealand (accessed 28 March 2024)

Story by Gerard Hutching, published 12 Jun 2006, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015