Pūteketeke's Friend
Introducing our remarkable Pūteketeke 'friend'! Celebrating an extraordinary moment in election history, the Pūteketeke not only won the Forest & Bird bird of the century election but the heart of John Oliver, the famed USA talk show host who unexpectedly became Pūteketeke's campaign manager.
As proud partners of Forest & Bird, Metalbird creates a silhouette of the winner every year, directing 30% of all proceeds to F&B. You can check out the Pūteketeke here, and because no Pūteketeke is complete without their biggest supporter, add the 'friend' clip-on at cart.
Our Pūteketeke Friend is:
✓ 15cm high by 9cm wide approximately 100g
✓ Made locally in a family-owned factory, right here in NZ
✓ Crafted from 3mm Corten steel and designed to last a lifetime
✓ Easy to install - simply hook onto the back of your Pūteketeke Metalbird, or find a creative way to display anywhere that you want!
More than a quirky turn of events, it symbolises the unexpected support and funding raised for the native birdlife of Aotearoa by our North American friends. This event wasn't just about competition; it was a celebration of global unity and support for nature.
Style With
Pūteketeke's Friend
AS SEEN IN
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
what’s the word on the bird?
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