George Hudson made large contributions to dragonfly entomology in New Zealand, but he had difficulty differentiating between P. smithii and P. grayi due to similarities in appearance.

Rowe (1987) supports this theory as is stated that due P. smithii eggs being subject to freezing temperatures during glacial advances.

"[5] P. smithii has spiny, thin legs that have the ability to capture prey and carry it distances whilst flying.

[5] P. smithii can be found near inland wetlands, streams, creeks, swamps, peatlands, marshes, bogs, waterfalls and fens.

Rowe (1987) notes that lack of study has led to a lower understanding of the maturation period of all dragonfly species.

It is suggested that further study is needed in this area by means of marking taxa and recapturing them upon arrival in water habitats after maturing period.

P. smithii mate in a tandem-like position with the male and female engaging in a copulatory wheel, which is easily distinguishable for its heart shaped formation.

This form of copulation involves indirect fertilization as at the base of their abdomens, male and female taxa have secondary genitalia (Ware and Herrera, 2012).

Rowe (1987) stipulates that P. smithii has two times of the year where it is particularly abundant – late December to early January, and the latter part of February.

[8] Odonates usually prey on small flying insects and in both larval and adult stages, regarded as skilled and capable hunters.

P. smithii, like many other species are threatened by climate change, particularly individuals residing in high elevation which may be challenged without a suitable habitat.