The near-threatened white-fronted tern (Sterna striata) is the most common tern species found along the coasts of New Zealand and parts of Australia. White-fronted refers to the distinct thin white strip (or frons) on the forehead that separates its black cap from its black bill. It is native to south-west Australasia (New Zealand, Stewart Island, Chatham, Auckland, and Snares islands) and migrates or visits parts of south-east Australia and Tasmania in the winter. Its Māori name is tara.