The Australasian grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae) is a small waterbird common on fresh water lakes and rivers in greater Australia, New Zealand and on nearby Pacific islands.

[3] Both sexes are generally duller, with no chestnut stripe, the face spot whiter, and throat and front grey-white.

The Australasian grebe is an excellent swimmer and diver, and usually dives immediately when alarmed and swims away under water.

They are not strong flyers and will fly distances only at night, presumably to avoid predators.

Initially the young will ride on the parents back, hidden between their slightly raised wings.