This koekoeā depicts Aotearoa’s long-tailed cuckoo. Recognised by its long tail, copper-brown plumage and distinctive call, the koekoeā migrates thousands of kilometres between Aotearoa and across the Pacific each year.

Its arrival and call traditionally heralded the coming of spring, marking an important seasonal change. The koekoeā lays its egg in the nest of another bird, leaving its chick to be raised by its host. This behaviour features in Māori whakataukī, where the koekoeā became a metaphor for someone who avoids their responsibilities.

This piece ships after 6th Nov 2026. Exclusive to Mountain Jade, this one-off art piece forms part of the 2026 Ngā Tamariki-a-Tāne-Mahuta Collection, celebrating the beauty and character of Aotearoa’s native birds through pounamu and contemporary carving. This collection will be on display in our Rotorua store from Thursday 1st October. Pieces may be purchased throughout the exhibition period but only be shipped once the exhibition concludes on 6th November. Read more.