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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Each Metalbird is crafted from Corten® Steel, a premium, weathering steel made to last.

When it meets the elements, it doesn’t rust like your old BBQ. It transforms.

That change you’re seeing? That’s patina. A tough, protective outer layer that seals the steel, adds character, and preserves your bird for decades.

This isn’t paint. It’s nature’s way of ageing gracefully.

The Patina Process:

At first, you’ll notice bright orange spots (we call this the teenage phase). Soon enough, the whole bird will turn a bold orange, slowly shifting into deep burnt umber. Eventually, it settles into a moody charcoal that feels like it’s always belonged.

The Result? A piece of industrial art with a heartbeat. No peeling, no fading, just a bird that gets better with age.

what’s the word on the bird?