Pūteketeke / Crested Grebe

Name: Pūteketeke / Crested Grebe
Brand: Metalbird New Zealand
SKU: NZ-LAR-PUTE
Price: 99.99 NZD
Availability: InStock

$99.99

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Description

Bird of the century. Icon for the ages.

Feast your eyes on the magnificent Pūteketeke, the slender-necked, punk-plumed showstopper that captivated the world during Bird of the Century. Known for its outlandish synchronized courtship dances, the Pūteketeke (or Great Crested Grebe) isn’t just a master of style and grace — it's now a pop-culture legend.

Made famous by The Last Week Tonight feature and John Oliver's hilarious campaign blitz, this waterbird has gone from overlooked to iconic. While our original limited-edition John Oliver versions are sold out, we’ve added a few slightly imperfect clip-on Johns to our seconds — available as an add-on for just $15. Get one before they vanish (again).

✓ 37cm high × 36cm wide, approx. 1kg
✓ Easy to send – packed in our large flat box (39cm × 34cm × 1cm)
✓ Same-day dispatch – on orders placed before 2pm weekdays
✓ Locally made – cut in a family-owned NZ workshop
✓ Crafted from 3mm Corten® steel – weathers beautifully outdoors
✓ Long-lasting art – made to stand strong through the seasons

This flamboyant feathered icon deserves a front-row seat in your garden.

1. Choose a prominent spot where it can be admired — near water is ideal, but not essential
2. Hold the stake at a downward angle and use a mallet or hammer to gently tap into firm ground
3. If installing on a post or harder surface, you may wish to pre-drill a pilot hole
4. For added creativity, nestle it between rocks or in a garden bed for a natural look
5. Add an optional John Oliver seconds clip-on to complete the scene

Top tip: Take a step back and admire — flamboyance this bold demands applause.

What’s the story behind the Pūteketeke?
Native to Aotearoa and parts of Europe, the Pūteketeke (Great Crested Grebe) is known for its extravagant plumage and intricate mating rituals. It recently went viral after winning Bird of the Century with help from comedian John Oliver.

What’s this about a John Oliver clip-on?
A few imperfect Johns from our sold-out run are now available as seconds. Add one to your cart for $15 and attach it for an extra dose of comedy and conversation.

Will this rust or discolour?
It’s made from Corten® weathering steel, which develops a protective rust patina that looks beautiful and helps it last for years.

Can I install it on a hard surface like decking?
Yes, with a pre-drilled hole or by securely wedging it between two sturdy surfaces.

Is it a limited edition?
The John Oliver clip-ons are — once they’re gone, they’re gone. But the Pūteketeke itself is here to stay.

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$99.99

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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.