Pīwakawaka / Fantail - Large

Regular price $94.99 Sale price $94.99

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Description

Bigger fan‑tail energy for your wild corner.

Always first to say kia ora, the Pīwakawaka (NZ Fantail) flicks its tail and dances through the garden chasing tiny insects you’ve stirred up. This Large silhouette captures that cheeky agility, complete with chick, so the whole scene feels alive—especially beside herbs, flax, or a compost bed where the real birds love to feed. Cut from 3 mm Corten steel, it weathers to a warm, protective patina that looks superb against greenery in summer and glows against winter light. If you’re after native‑bird décor with real movement—and a touch of meaning—this fantail and pēpi bring it every day.

✓ Statement native duo… 36.5 cm × 34 cm, approx. 450 g for strong visual impact
✓ Premium weathering steel… 3 mm Corten forms a protective patina—no repainting
✓ Gift‑ready packaging… large letter box 39 × 34 × 1 cm
✓ Versatile placement… posts, sleepers, raised beds, or sturdy planter rims
✓ Set‑and‑forget… four‑season outdoor art; wipe only if you feel fussy

Perch your Pīwakawaka where the action is.

  1. Choose solid timber — a fence post, deck rail, sleeper, or mature trunk gives the best bite.
  2. Set the stance — a slight downward angle looks natural and helps the stake hold.
  3. Protect the detail — cover the bird with a soft cloth before tapping to avoid marks.
  4. Tap the thick end — use short, controlled blows until snug; pre‑drill very hard woods (3–4 mm).
  5. Frame the scene — plant grasses or herbs around the base to echo a real fantail’s hangouts.

Top Tip: Place near your potting bench or veg patch—real Pīwakawaka often follow gardeners for the free bug buffet.

Do Pīwakawaka really follow people in the garden?
Yes—turning soil kicks up insects, and fantails are bold, curious insectivores that happily swoop in for an easy feed.

Will the patina stain paving?
During early weathering, light rust runoff can occur. Install over soil or mulch, or seal nearby pale stone/timber if you’re particular.

Can I install directly into the ground?
Yes—moisten the spot and create a pilot slit with a steel rod or screwdriver, then press/tap the stake in until firm.

Is the finish truly low‑maintenance?
Absolutely. Corten’s patina is the protection—no varnish or paint required; just an occasional wipe if dusty.

Where does it look most convincing?
Beside herbs, flax, ferns, or compost areas—anywhere with movement and insects. A soft evening backlight makes the tail fan pop.

Style With

AS SEEN IN

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Most of our steel bird silhouettes are cut from 3 mm Corten weathering steel. Check the individual product for its material, thickness and manufacturing origin: wooden birds, clothing and other products have their own specifications.

Why does Corten steel change colour?

Outdoors, the steel develops a natural rust patina. Grey gives way to orange and brown tones, with the setting and weather doing their bit. The colour and timing vary. It is unpainted steel, so a permanent black finish is not part of the deal.

Where should I put it?

Choose a spot with good drainage. Rusty runoff can mark pale paving, pots and walls, particularly while the steel is weathering. Follow the mounting instructions for your particular bird or feeder.

See how patina develops · Find your bird · Installation and care help

The Patina Process:

That first flash of orange? Your steel bird is settling in. Corten weathering steel develops a natural rust patina, changing through orange and brown tones as it spends time outdoors.

How long does patina take?

There is no fixed timetable or guaranteed final colour. Rain, humidity, airflow and the position you choose all affect how the surface changes.

Will it stain nearby surfaces?

Rusty runoff can mark paving, pots and walls, especially during early weathering. Leave room around pale surfaces and choose a location where water can drain freely.

Is my bird painted black?

Corten birds are unpainted steel. Their finish changes naturally; they are not intended to stay permanently black. Check your product page for the exact material and care instructions.

Read about the material · Browse the birds · Ask us about care

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