Since the first translocation in November 2021, the Sanctuary population has grown rapidly. Following multiple releases in 2021, 2022, and 2023, surveys now estimate at least 300 birds with a minimum of 250 birds, making this the largest known population in the country.

Kākāriki karaka (orange‑fronted parakeet) are Aotearoa’s rarest parakeet and one of our most endangered birds. Once found across the motu, they now survive in only a handful of locations. Twice declared extinct, their return to the Nelson region after a 100‑year absence is a major conservation success — and proof that the pest‑free Sanctuary is working.

The transfers were a collaboration between Department of Conservation (DOC), Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, captive‑breeding facilities such as The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust and Orana Wildlife Park, and the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary team. Air New Zealand supported the transfers, flying birds from Christchurch to Nelson. Volunteers, iwi representatives, ecologists, and support partners all played key roles.

A translocation is the careful capture, transport, and release of a species into suitable habitat to establish or boost a population: In our case, the aim is to reintroduce kākāriki karaka.
All captive-bred kākāriki karaka translocated to the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary were acclimatised for two nights in special on‑site aviaries before being released into the wild.

Success means the establishment of a self‑sustaining population with enough numbers and genetic diversity to thrive without further releases. This can take years and may involve multiple follow‑up translocations. The rapid growth of the Sanctuary’s kākāriki population is a strong sign we’re on track.

They are a taonga species for Ngāi Tahu, with deep cultural significance and centuries‑old connections in te ao Māori. Their bright green plumage, orange forehead, and cheeky personality make them instantly recognisable — but their survival is far from assured. The Sanctuary offers them a safe, pest‑free home with abundant food and nesting sites.

The 14‑km pest fence and ongoing biosecurity vigilance keep introduced mammals out. Intensive pest monitoring, habitat protection, and public reporting of sightings all help. The Sanctuary’s high connectivity to the 166,000 ha Mount Richmond Forest Park means that some birds will disperse beyond the fence into unprotected habitat, but abundant resources inside will encourage a core population to stay.

Voting opens 9am Monday 15 September and closes 5pm Sunday 28 September. The winner will be announced on Monday 29 September. When voting opens, you can select your favourite bird online — make sure Kākāriki Karaka is your #1 pick! Follow our updates for the voting link and campaign news.

Bird of the Year is run by Forest & Bird every year to raise awareness for our native wildlife, their habitats, and the threats they face. Find out more here – https://www.birdoftheyear.org.nz/ 

Kākāriki karaka prefer native beech forests, where they feed on invertebrates, fruits and seeds. At the Sanctuary — the only fenced sanctuary in Aotearoa made up primarily of beech forest — they’re perfectly at home.

Originally, they would have occupied the middle canopy layer, while red-crowned kākāriki are more often found lower down, and yellow-crowned kākāriki higher up. Kākāriki karaka are also the smallest of the three.

In years when the beech forest masts (producing large quantities of seed), kākāriki karaka are likely to benefit from a longer and more successful breeding season. With the next mast expected soon, we’re hopeful it will support another boost to our growing population.