This species is found in the southwestern Pacific Ocean around New Zealand and was first formally described in 2023.

[1] The 5th edition of Fishes of the World classifies the genus Kentrocapros in the family Aracanidae which is in the suborder Ostracioidea within the order Tetraodontiformes.

[2] Kentrocapros flavimaculatus is classified within the genus Kentrocapros, a name which combines kentro meaning "thorn" or "spine", a reference to the spiny ridge along the flanks of the type species, K. aculeatus, with capros, meaning "wild boar".

The body is marked along its flanks by yellow spots on a dark grey background, this fades towards the belly.

[4] Kentrocapros flavimaculatus Is known from only two specimens, the holotype from the Kermadec Islands and the paratype from the Tasman Sea 700 km (430 mi) north of Cape Reinga on the North Island of New Zealand.