Where to see kea in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to some pretty special wildlife, and one that truly stands out is the kea. The world's only alpine parrot, the kea bird is renowned for its intelligence, curiosity, and playful nature. These fascinating birds can be found in various locations across the South Island, and spotting one in the wild is a memorable experience. If you're planning a New Zealand road trip by campervan hire, it’s worth knowing where to spot kea so you can keep your eyes peeled. To make it easy, we’ve put together this handy guide to finding the kea parrot in New Zealand.

What is a kea?

The kea is a remarkable bird native to New Zealand, known for its distinctive olive-green feathers, orange underwings, and large, curved beak. This alpine parrot is not just visually striking; it’s also incredibly intelligent and curious, earning itself the nickname ‘the clown of the mountains.’ 

Kea (Nestor notabilis) are found in the South Island's alpine regions, particularly in and around the Southern Alps. They’re also highly social birds, often seen in groups, and famous for their playful and inquisitive nature. Kea have been observed using tools, solving puzzles, and even working together to achieve their goals. This cleverness is essential for their survival in the harsh alpine environment, where they forage for a wide variety of foods, including fruits, leaves, and insects.

READ MORE: NZ wildlife to keep an eye out for on your travels

Things to keep in mind when trying to spot kea

Spotting a kea in the wild is a highlight of any New Zealand road trip, but there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and the birds.

First and foremost, remember that kea are a protected species. It's important to observe them from a distance and avoid any interaction that might disturb their natural behaviour. Feeding kea is strictly prohibited as it can harm their health and alter their natural foraging habits. Keep your food and belongings secure, as these curious birds are known for their tendency to investigate and sometimes damage objects left unattended.

When planning your New Zealand itinerary, consider the best times and places to see kea. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the most active times for these birds. Always check local guidelines and advice on where to see kea, as their presence can vary seasonally and due to environmental factors.

While kea are known for their playful nature, it's important to respect their space. Approach quietly and avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. Bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens to enjoy watching these birds without getting too close.

The best way to go kea spotting

Kea spotting is an adventure that’s best enjoyed in the comfort of an Apollo campervan. Travelling in a campervan means you can easily reach remote and scenic spots where kea are often found, like Arthur's Pass, Milford Road, and Mount Cook. 

When you travel by Apollo campervan hire, you’ve got the freedom to go at your own pace and truly immerse yourself in the experience. Make spontaneous stops, take diversions off the beaten path, and meet other like-minded travellers along the way. 

Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, Apollo has a campervan or motorhome to suit. You’ve also got plenty of space for all your must-haves, and there’s no need to pack and unpack as you move between destinations. And of course, if you opt for a camper with a kitchen, you can make your favourite home-cooked meals on the go. What’s not to love!

The best places to see kea in New Zealand

Keen to plan a New Zealand travel itinerary that takes in the best places to see kea? Here are our top suggestions:

1. Arthur's Pass National Park

Located in the heart of the Southern Alps, Arthur's Pass National Park is a prime spot for seeing kea. This stunning area is known for its dramatic landscapes, featuring towering mountains, deep gorges, and lush forests. The kea can often be seen near the village of Arthur's Pass, particularly around the car parks and picnic areas where they come to investigate and play. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon will increase your chances of spotting these curious birds as they are most active during these times.

While exploring the park, take the time to hike one of the many trails, such as the popular Bealey Spur Track or the Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall Walk. Both offer breathtaking views and the chance to see kea in their natural habitat. 

For a comfortable stay, you can’t go past Jackson’s Retreat Alpine Holiday Park. This well-equipped campground offers spacious sites, clean facilities, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent base for your adventures in Arthur's Pass National Park, providing the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty.

2. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Home to New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers breathtaking alpine scenery with its snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and stunning valleys. Kea are frequently spotted around the car parks and visitor areas, especially near the Hooker Valley Track and the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint.

For the best chance of seeing kea, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These intelligent birds are most active during these times, and you’ll likely catch them engaging in their curious and playful behaviours. In addition to kea, the park offers numerous hiking trails, such as the Hooker Valley Track and the Sealy Tarns Track, where you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscape and encounter other native wildlife.

To make the most of your visit, stay at Glentanner Park Centre, a well-appointed campground offering powered sites for campervans. With excellent facilities and panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, it’s the perfect base for your adventures. 

READ MORE: Things to do in Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo

Image: Tourism New Zealand

3. Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a prime location for spotting kea, especially around Milford Sound and the Milford Track. This expansive park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes with deep fiords, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. The kea are often seen in the car parks and along the trails, where their curious nature brings them close to visitors.

While you're in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Milford Track or take a cruise through Milford Sound. Both experiences offer stunning views and the potential to see kea in their natural environment, as well as other unique wildlife.

For a great spot to stay, head to Fiordland National Park Lodge. This campground has powered sites perfect for campervans, offering all the comforts you need. With clean facilities and beautiful views, it's a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. 

4. The Remarkables Ski Area

The Remarkables Ski Area is a fantastic place to see kea during the ski season. These clever birds are often spotted around the base area, providing endless entertainment with their playful antics. 

Since campers can't drive up the ski roads, it’s best to use the shuttle service available from Queenstown. This way, you can enjoy the journey up the mountain without any hassle. Once at The Remarkables, take some time to explore the base area as you keep your eye out for the kea. Beyond bird spotting, the ski area offers plenty of winter sports activities, and the stunning alpine views are a treat in themselves.

Park your motorhome at Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park, which offers powered sites and all the amenities you need. Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring Queenstown and The Remarkables. 

READ MORE: Top winter campervan destinations in the South Island

5. Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier

The areas around Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier are renowned habitats for kea. These stunning glaciers, located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, provide a dramatic backdrop for spotting these playful alpine parrots. 

While exploring the glaciers, take your time to enjoy the various walking tracks and viewpoints. The Kea Point Track at Fox Glacier and the Sentinel Rock Walk at Franz Josef Glacier offer excellent opportunities to see kea and soak in the breathtaking glacial landscapes.

For a comfy stay, park up at the Franz Josef TOP 10 Holiday Park. This campground provides spacious powered sites and modern facilities, making it an excellent base for your glacier adventures. 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

6. Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a stunning destination, and the Rob Roy Track within the park is a great kea-spotting location. This track offers a fantastic hike through lush forests and alpine scenery, leading to breathtaking views of the Rob Roy Glacier. At the end of the track, where the glacier views are spectacular, you’re likely to spot kea as they often frequent this area, entertaining visitors with their inquisitive and cheeky nature.

The Rob Roy Glacier Track is not only great for kea spotting but also provides an excellent chance to enjoy the unique landscapes of Mount Aspiring National Park. Along the way, you'll encounter waterfalls, river crossings, and the stunning alpine environment that makes this park a must-visit.

For a comfortable place to stay, book into the Mount Aspiring Holiday Park. This campground offers powered sites with all the must-have facilities. After a day of hiking and kea spotting, you can relax at the holiday park and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. 

7. Craigieburn Forest Park

Another prime spot for seeing kea is Craigieburn Forest Park, especially around the ski areas and hiking tracks. This park, located in Canterbury, offers a variety of outdoor activities, from skiing in the winter to hiking and mountain biking during the warmer months. 

To increase your chances of seeing kea, head to the ski areas or the more popular hiking tracks like the Craigieburn Valley Track. As you explore the park, you'll enjoy stunning views of alpine scenery, dense forests, and clear streams.

For a memorable stay, park up at Lake Pearson / Moana Rua Campsite. This campsite offers basic facilities so it’s ideal for feeling connected with nature. Located near the lake, it provides a peaceful setting to relax after a day of exploring. You might even hear or see kea around the campsite.

READ MORE: Family-friendly hikes in the South Island

8. Milford Sound – Monkey Creek

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking destinations, and Monkey Creek, located along Milford Road, is a hotspot for spotting kea. This pristine area offers stunning views and crystal-clear waters, with the cheeky and inquisitive kea often making an appearance. They are known to interact with visitors, especially around the parking areas and viewpoints.

The surrounding scenery, including the towering mountains and lush forest, adds to the magic of this spot. Take some time to explore the area, enjoy the picturesque environment, and keep an eye out for these entertaining birds.

A popular spot to stay nearby is the Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park. This campground provides excellent facilities including powered sites, modern amenities, and stunning lake views. 

Ready to see some kea?

Exploring New Zealand's stunning landscapes and spotting the curious kea is an adventure you won't want to miss. Whether you're visiting the majestic Milford Sound or the trails of Mount Aspiring, an Apollo campervan offers the perfect blend of flexibility and comfort. 

Start planning your unforgettable journey today. Book your Apollo campervan online today and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime through the breathtaking wilderness of New Zealand.