The reef has its jewels. This is one of the brightest. The red pigfish is one of the most brilliantly coloured fish in New Zealand waters. Large males are a deep, fiery red with electric blue markings on their faces. Females and juveniles are orange-pink with less intense colouration. The Maori name Paakurakura means red or crimson. This reflects the stunning colouration. It looks like it was painted by an artist with a vivid imagination. An artist who liked red. All red pigfish are born female. The largest, most dominant individuals change sex to become male. This is a common strategy among wrasses. Sequential hermaphroditism ensures that the biggest, strongest fish control the breeding. They pass their genes to the next generation. When a male dies, the largest female transforms. She changes colour and develops male reproductive organs. A fish that can become what the reef needs. Red pigfish forage over rocky reefs and kelp forests during the day. They pick prey from crevices and under rocks. Strong canine teeth crush shells of small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. They are curious fish. They often approach divers to investigate. A fish that has not learned to be afraid. Not targeted commercially, but caught occasionally by recreational fishers. They appreciate their fighting ability and stunning looks. Slow growth and long lifespan make them vulnerable to localised overfishing. Marine protected areas provide refuge for this long-lived reef fish. A brilliant red fish with electric blue markings. It changes sex when needed. It patrols the rocky reefs in clear water. The diver approaches. The pigfish tilts its head and stares back. Blue markings flash in the sun. Then the pigfish swims away. Red and blue. Disappearing into the kelp. It does not know it is a masterpiece. It just is. In Māori tradition, Paakurakura was a fish of the rocky reefs and offshore islands. Its brilliant red colour was associated with the highest ranking chiefs. It was also linked to certain atua (deities). The colour change from female to male was observed and noted by Māori fishers. This biological shift held cultural significance. Mana whenua recognise these connections in coastal ecosystems.