The common name corresponds to the three black lines behind the insect's head.

This species was first described by Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1790 and named Musca seelandica.

[1] The taxonomy of this species was most recently discussed by F. Christian Thompson in 2008.

[4][2] H. seelandicus maggots live in water with decaying vegetation, animals or dung.

[5] Despite being native to New Zealand, this species is commonly reported to the Ministry of Primary Industries Pest and Disease Hotline.