A small and inconspicuous beetle, the Cromwell Chafer nevertheless is of great importance to conservation, being one of the most rare and threatened insects in New Zealand.

 

This flightless wonder evolved in the sandy soils around Cromwell and is now confined to the reserve. A chunky beetle, reaching 15mm in length, the Cromwell Chafer emerges at night to feed on cushion plants, herbs and grasses.

 

By day the adults hide themselves in the upper layers of sand.