The hiwihiwi (kelp fish) are found around the coasts of New Zealand, and lives ives in the shallow waters between the intertidal zone and about 30m or 100 feet.
This species is also seen in Southeastern Queensland down to parts of Northern Tasmania.
I beleive these fish live a fairly solitery life because when I have observed them there is normally only one or two and they tend to mingle and share the same area with blue cod.
The hiwihiwi has a pointed snout and a small mouth. It has large pectoral fins with branched rays above and thickened unbranched rays below. It has a row of 14 or so dorsal spines and 3 softer Anal rays.
This species is grey, brown, green or pinkish with large dark blotches on the body. There are numerous small white spots over the entire head, body and fins of the adults.
They grow to a maximum of 40cm or 16in length, though many seen are around 30cm or smaller.
The hiwihiwi feed on small molluscs, crabs and sea urchins.
Fertilised eggs have been reported attached to weeds inside holes within the reef areas.