The New Zealand Rockwren is now restricted to South Island and is declining in numbers.

New Zealand wrens are mostly insectivorous foragers of New Zealand's forests, with one species, the New Zealand Rockwren being restricted to alpine areas.

Of the two remaining species the Rifleman is still common on both North and South Island, while the New Zealand Rockwren is restricted to the alpine areas of South Island and is considered vulnerable.

The New Zealand Rockwren is specialised for the alpine environment, in areas of low scrub and scree from 900 m up to 2,400 m. Contrary to its other common name (the South Island Wren) fossil evidence shows it was more widespread in the past and lived on North Island.