Most recently associated with alpine tussock grassland, but possibly more widespread in the past in forest and grassland. Thought to be extinct by the 1930s, the species was rediscovered in 1948. The main population in Fiordland numbered more than 150 individuals in 1994, with around 40 birds in the four introduced island groups. More than twelve years. The species is sedentary, holding territories from October to May, and is monogamous, breeding in family groups.
Clutch size is one to three, the eggs are pale buff with irregular blotches of mauve and brown.
Formerly widespread on both the North and South Islands. Competition with deer for food, and predation by introduced mammals, are believed to be the main causes of decline. Management is countering these, but the species is at some risk from the impact of deer on food plants, and stoat predation. Management of deer numbers has led to some recovery of natural vegetation. Stoats have also been trapped.