In April 2026, the first three kākā were released into the forest at Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, followed by another three in late May. These releases marked the beginning of a long-term vision of the Sanctuary to restore a thriving wild kākā population to Whakatū Nelson.
These birds are true forest parrots, evolved for large natural forest ecosystems. The sanctuary is surrounded by extensive pristine beech forest, ideal kākā habitat. Unlike the urban populations elsewhere in Aotearoa, our kākā have the chance to reclaim their natural forest home.
As neighbours within flying distance, you play an important role in this. Since being released, the kākā have been exploring their surroundings, including the bush around the sanctuary and reserves and gardens in town. It can be a thrilling experience, but it’s crucial the birds remain wild and independent.
If kākā visit your property:
• Watch and enjoy from a distance
• Let them continue exploring naturally
• Tell your neighbours and report the sighting.
Please don’t:
• Offer food or water
• Encourage interaction or tameness
• Approach, chase or handle them.
Feeding kākā unintentionally encourages them to leave the forest and become dependent on people. This leads to nuisance behaviour, poor bird health, conflict with residents, and reduced survival in the wild. The best outcome for both the birds and the community is for kākā to remain forest-dwelling, wild parrots — not suburban birds reliant on human interaction.
Spotted one? Please call. Look for a numbered metal band on one leg and a single-coloured band on the other. Some birds also carry a small transmitter - usually only a fine silver antenna is visible. Let us know via Council’s number: 03 546 0200, or email the Biodiversity team nelson.nature@ncc.govt.nz
