Tīeke / Saddleback

A bold chestnut saddle and a tougher‑than‑history story.

From the same ancient wattlebird whānau as the extinct huia, the instantly recognisable—inky black body, glowing chestnut “saddle," and orange wattles that, like noses, grow with age. Predators nearly silenced that sharp tī‑e‑ke‑ke‑ke call in the 19th century; heroic work by conservationists hauled the species back from the brink. Our steel Tīeke puts that story where it belongs… in your garden. Precision‑cut from 3 mm Corten steel , it settles into a warm, protective patina that looks striking against mānuka, flax, or a sunlit fence. Powerful symbol, easy install, all seasons.

✓ Life‑sized character. 5 cm (H) × 31 cm (W), approx. 300 g—sleek, horizontal stance
✓ Premium Corten steel. weathering patina protects; no repainting required
✓ Gift‑ready. ships flat in our A4 box (31 × 21 × 1 cm)
✓ Versatile placement. posts, sleepers, raised beds, or wedge between stones/boards
✓ Meaning with style. celebrates conservation and classic wattlebird design