New Zealand wildlife: What to expect and where to go wildlife spotting

Kea

The kea is one of the most common parrots in New Zealand. They are often nicknamed the mountain parrot because they live in mountainous areas of the South Island. Their plumage is green and brown on top, but the inside of their wingspan is orange. The kea is one of the most intelligent birds in the world. The species has been protected since 1970. Their intelligence means they can sometimes be a nuisance, playing with car antennas and wing mirrors… so watch out!

Where to see it?

Kea can be seen in the mountainous regions of the South Island around Arthur’s Pass, Mount Cook National Park (especially at Kea Point), Milford Sound and in the alpine forests of Fiordland.

If you want to guarantee a kea sighting, you can visit Paradise Valley Springs in Rotorua on the North Island, where they have a kea walk-through enclosure and daily keeper’s talks about this fascinating bird.

Kaka

The kaka is similar to the kea (they are from the same family). It is distinguished by its smaller size, its browner plumage and the feathers between its eyes, which can be white or a lighter colour. The kaka is found in forests up to an altitude of 1,500 metres.

Where to see it?

The kaka can be found in the wild in the Whirinaki and Pureora Forest Parks, the Rotoiti Nature Recovery Project area, the Milford Track, and the Eglinton Valley in Fiordland National Park.

If you aren’t having luck finding them in the wild, you can guarantee a kaka sighting at the Pukaha National Wildlife Centre or Zealandia on the North Island.

Tui

The tui is one of the symbolic birds of New Zealand—see the logo of the popular Tui beer brand! It has brown, iridescent blue and black feathers. Its peculiarity lies in its two small balls of white feathers under its neck, and in its unusual birdsong.

Where to see it?

You will find the tui almost everywhere in the North Island. On the South Island, it is more likely to be found on the West Coast, Southland, or Stewart Island.

Royal albatross

The royal albatross is a large bird found only in New Zealand. It can weigh up to 10 kilos and its fully extended wingspan exceeds 3 metres.

Where to see it?

There are two colonies in New Zealand. The first is located on Campbell Island, off the South Island, and is inaccessible to the public. The second is located at Taiaroe Head on the Otago Peninsula. There, you will find the albatross research centre. Depending on the time of year, you can even see a few from the car park. Otherwise, you will have to take a guided tour of the research centre to see them!