Courtship behaviour in mid June before the breeding season begins. They do not breed in Autumn according to my observations.
I think this is a male with bright colours to attract a female i.e. out looking for a mate or food. I also think that they spend much/most of the time hidden
Originally thought this was Seriola dumerili, and published the record as such. It turns out this was incorrect, when IDed according to "The fishes of NZ" book (Te Papa)
Seen on John Brewer reef
A fisherman caught this fish from the rocks. They were using bread and squid as bait.
Multiple spotted in tiddle rock pools.