This small member of the grebe family is a threatened endemic found only in New Zealand's North Island, it has a total population of less than 2000 individuals. Despite its sparse distribution, they are fairly easy to find in sheltered bays of the lakes around Taupo and Rotorua, often in pairs or family groups amongst New Zealand scaup (Aythya novaeseelandiae). They can also be found on lakes, farm ponds, and sewage oxidation ponds throughout much of North Island, but these are not quite as enticing to photographers as the clear lakes of the Volcanic Plateau. Like all grebes they are aquatic specialists and spend virtually all their time on (or under) water. Propelled by large lobed feet they often surface a surprising distance from where they dived. They are actually capable fliers, some travelling between lakes in winter but only under cover of darkness. Their reluctance to take flight even when disturbed means they don't seem to be significantly affected by duck shooting.
Food consists mostly of small fish and aquatic invertebrates which are usually caught on dives lasting 20 to 30 seconds. Chicks can swim and dive soon after hatching and can often be seen riding on their parents backs.
Cache contains log book and pencil and has room for small treasures.