The species breeds in native forest; in the non-breeding season birds also utilise exotic plantations and suburban areas. The species is dependent on fruiting trees and it is considered that only a relatively small number of native species are of great importance (Gibbs et al. 2001). Breeding takes a notably long time, with incubation lasting about 30 days and the young fledging after 6-7 weeks (Gibbs et al. 2001).

Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae is a forest pigeon endemic to New Zealand, breeding on the North, South and Stewart Islands, Little and Great Barrier Islands, Hen and Chicken Islands, Mayor Island and Kapiti Island (del Hoyo et al. 1997, Gibbs et al. 2001). The subspecies spadicea, of Norfolk Island, Australia, went extinct in the early 20th century (Schodde et al. 1983).

Conservation and Research Actions Underway
Still considered conservation dependent in most of its range (Robertson et al. 2021). Predator-free islands continue to be subject to intensive biosecurity measures which, in some areas, have driven rapid increases.

Conservation and Research Actions Proposed
Regularly monitor to determine population trends. Investigate the extent of hunting by local residents. Control hunting where possible, perhaps using awareness campaigns. Continue to protect significant areas of intact native forest throughout its range. Control introduced predators and competitors at key sites.