Pet birds

Pet birds in New Zealand: what is legal and what to check

Updated 4 November 2026

Pet birds in New Zealand are bought from local breeders, because live bird imports are not allowed and keeping native birds in captivity is generally illegal unless you hold a licence. In shop listings we found a cockatiel at about NZ$80 and a canary at about NZ$60, quoted per bird, in November 2026. To see current offers for the species you want, send a request on BlaBlaPrice.

• Species, and whether it is legal to keep in New Zealand
• Age, sex and whether the bird is tame
• How many birds you want, and whether you need a pair
• Cage size and whether the cage is included
• Your city and your budget per bird

Rules to check before you buy

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) states that no live birds may be imported into New Zealand, so any bird on offer should be locally bred. Keeping native birds in captivity is generally illegal unless you are a licensed bird rehabilitator or a kākāriki breeder. Auckland Council also sets rules for keeping birds and poultry, including limits on numbers on urban properties, so check your council's rules before you bring birds home.

Lifespan and care

Small birds such as budgies can live for ten years or more, and some larger parrots can live for 50 years. Ask the seller about the species' lifespan and care needs, since a bird is a long commitment. A good seller will tell you what the bird eats, how it is housed and what vet care it needs.

Season and warmth

Summer runs from December to February, and winter from June to August. Small birds need a warm, draught-free room in winter, so plan the cage location before you collect the bird. Moving a bird in cold or wet weather is stressful, so arrange collection on a mild day.

How pet birds are bought here

Breeders in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton and Tauranga sell locally bred birds, usually priced per bird. Ask whether the price includes the cage, transport and any food. Collection in person is the usual way to buy, so say which city you can reach.

Sellers registered on BlaBlaPrice receive your request and reply in the chat with their own offer: price, terms and delivery. Your contacts stay hidden until you decide whom to contact. Create a request for free, or read how it works first.