Like the Kea, these parrots are named after their calls. Kãkã's are strong fliers which inhabit native forest on main and larger coastal islands.

North and South Island sub-species are recognised but this is not supported by genetic data. There is a trend towards greater size from north to south, and a perceived brighter colouration towards the south.

Male's bills are more deeply curved. They dig in dying wood for grubs and eat fruit, leaves, nectar and insects. They nest in hollow trees and lay 4-5 white eggs on pulverised wood.

In Arthur's Pass, you'll see or hear them in the Waimakariri Valley above Turkey Flat, near the Carrington Hut area, halfway up Woolshed Hill in the Hawdon Valley, and in various locations along the Taramakau Valley.

Their call is a strong booming "hoot" type sound, you've got to use your imagination to hear "kaka" in the call.