Tara Iti / New Zealand Fairy Tern

Tiny, endangered, and fighting for every flight.

With fewer than 40 adults left in the wild, the Tara Iti (New Zealand fairy tern) is officially our most endangered native bird — a delicate seabird on the edge of extinction. This special edition Metalbird was created in honour of the incredible conservation work led by Auckland Zoo and the Department of Conservation (DOC), whose hand-rearing programme is giving this fragile taonga another chance to thrive.

Laser cut from 3mm Corten® steel, this sculpture is a powerful symbol of hope. As it develops its protective rust patina, your Fairy Tern will become a lasting reminder of how small acts — like supporting conservation or sharing awareness — can help turn the tide.

Even better? 30% of proceeds from every purchase will go directly to Auckland Zoo, supporting their vital conservation work saving the tara iti and other native wildlife across Aotearoa New Zealand.

✓ 31cm high × 22cm wide – approx. 300g
✓ Easy to send – packaged in a recyclable A4 gift box (31 × 21 × 1 cm)
✓ Same day dispatch – orders placed before 2pm ship weekdays
✓ Locally made – cut and crafted in a family-run factory
✓ Lasts a lifetime outdoors – weathering Corten® steel forms a rich, protective patina
✓ Supports real conservation – 30% of proceeds goes to Auckland Zoo's Fairy Tern Programme