Rain falls on it constantly. The Kaharore bully lives in fast-flowing gravelly streams where water runs cold and clear. These waters tumble over rocks and boulders, creating high-oxygen environments that few other fish can tolerate. The fish clings to the bottom, propped up on large paddle-shaped pectoral fins, watching for intruders. Kaharore. The Māori name refers to this specific bully species. Early Māori likely encountered Kaharore bullies in fast-flowing streams throughout New Zealand. However their small size and preference for fast water meant they were probably less significant as a food source compared to larger migratory species. Today the species serves as an indicator of stream health. Its presence signals clean gravel beds high oxygen levels and absence of excessive sediment. The Kaharore bully reaches about 100 millimetres in length. Its body is streamlined, coloured mottled brown and grey to blend with river stones. During breeding season, males develop brighter colouration with orange-red bands and iridescent blue stripes on fins. They guard nests under flat stones, fanning eggs to keep them oxygenated. Spawning occurs in spring and summer. Eggs are laid on the underside of flat rocks in shallow riffles. The male guards the eggs aggressively, chasing away intruders. The larvae hatch and are swept out to sea, returning as juveniles to find their home stream. This diadromous life history connects freshwater streams to coastal waters. Diet consists of aquatic insects, small crustaceans and insect larvae. The fish feeds on drifting prey caught in current or picked from gravel surfaces. It is active during daylight hours but often hides under rocks to avoid predators. Classified as Not Threatened, the Kaharore bully remains widespread throughout New Zealand. Populations are stable in suitable habitat. However the species is highly sensitive to sedimentation. When water turns muddy from agricultural runoff or forestry operations, the Kaharore bully vanishes. Its presence or absence is a good indicator of whether a stream is healthy or degraded. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining riparian vegetation and reducing sediment input to keep streams clear and cool.