Known from the eastern South I., limited number in west of South I., and rare in North I. Range is expanding (Ref. 52336). In coastal waters, mainly east coast of South Island; migrates inshore and up rivers to spawn in late summer and autumn (Ref. 9258). Population in the South Island of New Zealand originated from Chinook eggs shipped between 1900 and 1906 from Battle Creek Hatchery in Sacramento River (Ref. 76986). Voucher specimen(s) held at the NMNZ (Ref. 5755). Also Ref. 1998, 6452, 6466, 7306, 27436, 43202, 58461.