Yellow Admiral Vanessa itea

The Māori call this beauty kahukōwhai—"yellow cloak"—a name that perfectly captures the warmth of its coloring. Found across the South Pacific islands including Australia, New Zealand, Lord Howe Island, and Norfolk Island, this butterfly is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Aotearoa. The poetic name reflects how important this species is, making it more than just a scientific specimen but a living symbol of island biodiversity.