This storm petrel is strictly nocturnal at the breeding sites to avoid predation by larger and more aggressive gulls and skuas.

It differs from the more common petrel species found in New Zealand, Wilson's storm petrel (O. oceanicus), by its pale bar on the upper wing, white belly with streaking, narrow white panel on the underwings, longer legs, and dark webs to the feet.

[6] The study also suggested the species is probably more closely related to storm petrels in the genus Fregetta than Oceanites.

[8] Subsequently, four storm petrels were captured and released in a similar area in late 2005/early 2006, three with radio transmitters attached.

[9] A team of researchers from Auckland University led by Chris Gaskin and Matt Rayner discovered the breeding site in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in February 2013.