Kakapos aren’t just rare, they’re unforgettable. Covered in soft green feathers and blessed with a gentle, quirky nature, these New Zealand parrots are full of character. They can’t fly, but they make up for it with charm. If you’re after the perfect Kakapo name for a pet, mascot, or story, you’re in the right place.
At namesbirds.com, we’ve made a big list of Kakapo names with meanings. You’ll find cute, creative, famous, and one-of-a-kind options. Not sure where to start? Use our Kakapo Name Generator and explore names by style or personality. Naming a Kakapo has never been easier or more fun.
These Kakapo names have deep meaning and a positive feel. They match the rare beauty of the bird and the hope for its survival. Each name tells a bit of the story of caring for this special species.
Name
Meaning
Aroha
Love, affection, compassion (Māori)
Hōpara
To explore, discover (Māori)
Kaitiaki
Guardian, protector (Māori)
Mana
Prestige, authority, spiritual power (Māori)
Rangatira
Chief, leader (Māori)
Toa
Brave, strong, warrior (Māori)
Waimarie
Good fortune, blessing (Māori)
Korimako
Bellbird (a native New Zealand bird)
Ruru
Morepork (a native New Zealand owl)
Tūī
A native New Zealand songbird
Ataahua
Beautiful, lovely (Māori)
Kotuku
White heron (a rare native New Zealand bird)
Rimu
A native New Zealand tree
Kauri
A large native New Zealand tree
Pounamu
Greenstone, jade (valued in Māori culture)
Awa
River (Māori)
Moana
Ocean, sea (Māori)
Whenua
Land, earth (Māori)
Hina
Moon goddess (Māori mythology)
Tane
God of forests and birds (Māori mythology)
Aoraki
Cloud piercer (a significant South Island mountain)
Kaikoura
To eat crayfish (a coastal town known for wildlife)
Motu
Island (Māori)
Roto
Lake (Māori)
Weka
A flightless native New Zealand bird
Kiwi
Another iconic flightless New Zealand bird
Takahe
Another rare flightless New Zealand bird
Kokako
Another unique New Zealand bird
Piopio
A now extinct native New Zealand bird (in memoriam)
Huia
Another extinct native New Zealand bird (in memoriam)
Kea
A native New Zealand alpine parrot
Kaka
A native New Zealand forest parrot
Titi
Sooty shearwater (a migratory seabird)
Toroa
Albatross (a majestic seabird)
Karearea
New Zealand falcon
Pukeko
A native swamphen
Fantail
A small, friendly native bird
Silvereye
A small, common native bird
Bellbird
Another melodious native bird
Stitchbird
A rare native honeyeater
Saddleback
A striking native forest bird
Fernbird
A secretive native bird of wetlands and scrub
Rock Wren
A tiny native alpine bird
Rifleman
New Zealand's smallest bird
Morepork
A native owl known for its call
Grey Warbler
A common native songbird
Chaffinch
A common introduced songbird
Blackbird
A common introduced songbird
Song Thrush
A common introduced songbird
Cute Kakapo Names
These names were picked because they’re sweet and full of charm, just like the kakapo’s clumsy but lovable personality. They’re made to feel gentle and affectionate, perfect for such a special bird.
Name
Meaning
Pōtiki
Youngest child, darling (Māori)
Minoi
Small, little (Māori, informal)
Reka
Sweet, delightful (Māori)
Hemi
James (a common endearing nickname)
Toby
Tobias (a friendly-sounding name)
Bella
Beautiful (Italian, often used endearingly)
Charlie
Charles (a classic, friendly name)
Pip
Small seed (cute and small)
Buttons
Small, round, and cute
Nugget
Small and precious
Wisp
Small, delicate thread
Bean
Small and round
Peanut
Small and cute
Pickle
Small and quirky
Squish
Soft and cuddly sounding
Fluffy
Soft and downy
Dumpling
Small and plump
Mochi
Soft and chewy (Japanese treat)
Bubba
Endearing term for a small one
Snuggles
Suggests cuddliness
Patches
Often refers to soft markings
Speckle
Small spots
Dotty
Covered in small dots
Gizmo
Cute and quirky gadget
Widget
Small and useful thing
Jojo
Playful and cute repetition
Kiki
Lively and sweet sounding
Coco
Sweet and gentle sounding
Lulu
Precious and charming
Zuzu
Unique and endearing repetition
Fifi
Frilly and cute sounding
Mimi
Sweet and soft sounding
Riri
Small and spirited
Toto
Childlike and sweet sounding
Yoyo
Playful and bouncy sounding
Gigi
Affectionate and soft sounding
Suki
Beloved (Japanese)
Aiko
Little loved one (Japanese)
Ren
Lotus (evokes purity and gentleness)
Lin
Precious jade (Chinese)
Bo
Precious, valuable (Chinese)
Mei
Beautiful (Chinese)
Kenji
Intelligent second son (Japanese, can be endearing)
Haru
Spring (Japanese, evokes new life)
Yuki
Snow (Japanese, evokes purity and softness)
Tama
Jewel, ball (Japanese, can be cute)
Kira
Glittering, shining (Russian)
Misha
Little bear (Russian nickname)
Sasha
Defender of mankind (Russian nickname, can be cute)
Kakapos aren’t famous like celebrities, but these names carry history. They come from special people, places, and events tied to their conservation.
Name
Meaning
Richard Henry
Significant kākāpō from Fiordland, key to research
Zealandia
Ecological sanctuary where many kākāpō live
Codfish
Refers to Codfish Island (Whenua Hou), main sanctuary
Anchor
Refers to Anchor Island, another sanctuary
Pearl
Name of a well-known kākāpō
Esperance
Location tied to kākāpō conservation
Sinbad
Notable kākāpō
Solstice
Important time of year, linked to breeding
Hokitika
Town near historic kākāpō range
Stewart
Refers to Stewart Island (Rakiura), former habitat
Fiordland
Region where kākāpō once thrived
Chalky
Refers to Chalky Island, past sanctuary
Te Anau
Lake near Fiordland, linked to habitat
Manapouri
Another Fiordland lake tied to habitat
Ulva
Refers to Ulva Island, pest-free sanctuary
Maud
Refers to Maud Island, early sanctuary
Little Barrier
Hauturu-o-Toi / Little Barrier Island, historic sanctuary
Great Barrier
Aotea / Great Barrier Island, past range
Kapiti
Kapiti Island, key nature reserve
Tiritiri
Tiritiri Matangi Island, bird sanctuary
Orokonui
Refers to Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Bushy Park
Bushy Park Scenic Reserve
Pūkaha
Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre
Rotokare
Rotokare Scenic Reserve
Sanctuary
General term for protected areas
Recovery
Reflects ongoing conservation efforts
Hope
Symbolizes optimism for future
Conservation
Directly tied to protection work
Protection
Emphasizes safeguarding the kākāpō
Survival
The ultimate goal
Endemic
Shows unique New Zealand origin
Native
Proudly New Zealand-born species
Flightless
Key trait of kākāpō
Nocturnal
Defines their nighttime activity
Boomer
Refers to distinctive mating call
Mossy
Links to green-tinged feathers
Ancient
Shows long evolutionary history
Unique
Highlights their one-of-a-kind nature
Special
Underscores their importance
Rare
Notes fragile population
Precious
Reflects ecological and cultural value
Iconic
Symbol of New Zealand
National
Shows importance to the country
Wildlife
Part of natural heritage
Ecology
Connection to environment
Biodiversity
Role in ecosystem’s variety
Good Kakapo Names
Here are some good Kakapo names with gentle sounds and nature-inspired meanings. They're friendly, fun, and fitting for these rare, lovable parrots with prominent personalities.
Name
Meaning
Hauora
Health, vitality, well-being (Māori)
Marama
Moon, light (Māori)
Rongo
Peace, harmony (Māori)
Wairua
Spirit, soul (Māori)
Koha
Gift, offering (Māori)
Ata
Morning, dawn (Māori)
Po
Night (Māori)
Rua
Two (can symbolize partnership in conservation)
Toru
Three (can symbolize community)
Wha
Four (can symbolize balance)
Lima
Five (can symbolize growth)
Ono
Six (can symbolize harmony)
Whitu
Seven (can symbolize completeness)
Waru
Eight (can symbolize abundance)
Iwa
Nine (can symbolize wisdom)
Tekau
Ten (can symbolize unity)
Kākāriki
Green (Māori, referring to color)
Parauri
Brown (Māori, referring to color)
Kowhai
Yellow (Māori, referring to color)
Mangu
Black (Māori, referring to color)
Mā
White, pure (Māori, referring to color)
Hinahina
Grey (Māori, referring to color)
Uira
Lightning (evoking energy)
Whatitiri
Thunder (evoking power)
Kapua
Cloud (evoking gentleness)
Hukarere
Snow (evoking purity)
Tio
Oyster (evoking resilience)
Koura
Crayfish (evoking resourcefulness)
Paua
Abalone (evoking beauty)
Toatoa
A native shrub (connection to habitat)
Harakeke
Flax (a useful native plant)
Kiekie
A native climbing plant
Nikau
A native palm tree
Ponga
Silver fern (a national symbol)
Tawa
A native forest tree
Totara
A large native forest tree
Houhere
Lacebark tree (beautiful native tree)
Rewarewa
Honeysuckle tree (native with striking flowers)
Kawakawa
Native shrub with medicinal uses
Koromiko
Native shrub with small leaves
Manuka
Native shrub with medicinal honey
Kanuka
Similar to manuka, another native shrub
Hebe
A genus of native flowering plants
Celmisia
A genus of native daisy-like plants
Ourisia
A genus of native alpine flowers
Ranunculus
Buttercup (some native species)
Gentian
Native alpine flowers
Anemone
Native alpine flowers
Edelweiss
A rare and beautiful alpine flower (not native, but evocative)
Unique Kakapo Names
These names are chosen for their distinctiveness and less common associations, aiming to provide a truly individual identity for a kakapo. They may draw inspiration from unusual aspects of their biology, behavior, or rare status.
Name
Meaning
Huna
Hidden, concealed (Māori, referring to their nocturnal nature)
Ngū
Silent (Māori, referring to their quiet movements)
Kōwhaiwhai
Ornamental patterns (Māori, reflecting the intricate patterns of nature)
Pōhutukawa
A native flowering tree (striking and unique)
Whio
Blue duck (another unique New Zealand native)
Tuatara
A unique ancient reptile of New Zealand
Weta
A unique group of New Zealand insects
Gecko
A type of lizard found in New Zealand
Skink
Another type of lizard found in New Zealand
Pīngao
A native golden sand sedge
Toetoe
A native grass with feathery plumes
Karetu
A native sweet grass
Taramea
Native spiky shrubs
Ongaonga
Native stinging nettle (unique defense)
Tawari
A native forest tree with distinctive leaves
Conclusion
Picking a name for a Kakapo should feel easy and personal. These birds are rare and full of personality, so giving them a name that suits who they are makes sense. There are plenty of great options, whether after something fun, classic, or unusual. Use the ideas here as a starting point; take your time and choose the right name.
FAQs
What are some good names for a Kakapo?
Kakapo names work best when they match their green feathers, gentle nature, or rare charm. You could go with Mossy, Kākāriki (Māori for green), Tui, or Whisper.
Can I use traditional or Māori-inspired names for my Kakapo?
Yes, many Kakapo names are inspired by Māori language and culture, honoring their New Zealand roots. Just be respectful in choosing and using names with cultural significance.
How does the Kakapo Name Generator work?
Our Kakapo Name Generator suggests names based on categories like personality, appearance, or theme. Simply click to explore creative, meaningful names tailored for this rare and lovable bird.
Kakapos are among the world’s rarest and most fascinating parrots, known for their mossy green feathers, gentle nature, and quirky personalities. Native to New Zealand, these nocturnal birds are flightless, wise-looking, and charming. Whether you admire them from afar or are naming a character, pet, or project inspired by this unique species, finding the perfect Kakapo name can be a fun and meaningful experience.
At namesbirds.com, we’ve put together the ultimate collection of Kakapo names with meanings featuring everything from the best Kakapo names to cute, famous, good, and unique Kakapo names. Each name is carefully chosen to match the Kakapo’s personality, appearance, and cultural significance. Whether you want something sweet and playful or bold and legendary, a name here will fit your feathered friend (or mascot!) perfectly.
And if you’re unsure where to start, try our Kakapo Name Generator! It’s an easy and fun way to explore names based on style, personality, or a specific theme. Whether you’re looking for something meaningful, Maori-inspired, or entirely one-of-a-kind, our generator will help you discover the perfect name in just a few clicks.
No matter your reason for naming a Kakapo, our guide is designed to make the process easy, enjoyable, and packed with inspiration. So let your imagination take flight even if your Kakapo can’t, and find a name that celebrates this lovable bird’s rare and magical charm.
Kakapo Name Generator
Click a letter to generate Kakapo-style names!
Best Kakapo Names
These names are chosen for their strong meanings and positive connotations, reflecting the kakapo's unique status and the hopes for their continued survival. They aim to capture the essence of these remarkable birds and the efforts dedicated to their conservation.
Name
Meaning
Aroha
Love, affection, compassion (Māori)
Hōpara
To explore, discover (Māori)
Kaitiaki
Guardian, protector (Māori)
Mana
Prestige, authority, spiritual power (Māori)
Rangatira
Chief, leader (Māori)
Toa
Brave, strong, warrior (Māori)
Waimarie
Good fortune, blessing (Māori)
Korimako
Bellbird (a native New Zealand bird)
Ruru
Morepork (a native New Zealand owl)
Tūī
A native New Zealand songbird
Ataahua
Beautiful, lovely (Māori)
Kotuku
White heron (a rare native New Zealand bird)
Rimu
A native New Zealand tree
Kauri
A large native New Zealand tree
Pounamu
Greenstone, jade (valued in Māori culture)
Awa
River (Māori)
Moana
Ocean, sea (Māori)
Whenua
Land, earth (Māori)
Hina
Moon goddess (Māori mythology)
Tane
God of forests and birds (Māori mythology)
Aoraki
Cloud piercer (a significant South Island mountain)
Kaikoura
To eat crayfish (a coastal town known for wildlife)
Motu
Island (Māori)
Roto
Lake (Māori)
Weka
A flightless native New Zealand bird
Kiwi
Another iconic flightless New Zealand bird
Takahe
Another rare flightless New Zealand bird
Kokako
Another unique New Zealand bird
Piopio
A now extinct native New Zealand bird (in memoriam)
Huia
Another extinct native New Zealand bird (in memoriam)
Kea
A native New Zealand alpine parrot
Kaka
A native New Zealand forest parrot
Titi
Sooty shearwater (a migratory seabird)
Toroa
Albatross (a majestic seabird)
Karearea
New Zealand falcon
Pukeko
A native swamphen
Fantail
A small, friendly native bird
Silvereye
A small, common native bird
Bellbird
Another melodious native bird
Stitchbird
A rare native honeyeater
Saddleback
A striking native forest bird
Fernbird
A secretive native bird of wetlands and scrub
Rock Wren
A tiny native alpine bird
Rifleman
New Zealand's smallest bird
Morepork
A native owl known for its call
Grey Warbler
A common native songbird
Chaffinch
A common introduced songbird
Blackbird
A common introduced songbird
Song Thrush
A common introduced songbird
Cute Kakapo Names
These names are chosen for their endearing qualities, reflecting the kakapo's somewhat clumsy yet charming nature. They aim to capture a sense of affection and gentleness, suitable for these unique and beloved birds.
Name
Meaning
Pōtiki
Youngest child, darling (Māori)
Minoi
Small, little (Māori, informal)
Reka
Sweet, delightful (Māori)
Hemi
James (a common endearing nickname)
Toby
Tobias (a friendly-sounding name)
Bella
Beautiful (Italian, often used endearingly)
Charlie
Charles (a classic, friendly name)
Pip
Small seed (cute and small)
Buttons
Small, round, and cute
Nugget
Small and precious
Wisp
Small, delicate thread
Bean
Small and round
Peanut
Small and cute
Pickle
Small and quirky
Squish
Soft and cuddly sounding
Fluffy
Soft and downy
Dumpling
Small and plump
Mochi
Soft and chewy (Japanese treat)
Bubba
Endearing term for a small one
Snuggles
Suggests cuddliness
Patches
Often refers to soft markings
Speckle
Small spots
Dotty
Covered in small dots
Gizmo
Cute and quirky gadget
Widget
Small and useful thing
Jojo
Playful and cute repetition
Kiki
Lively and sweet sounding
Coco
Sweet and gentle sounding
Lulu
Precious and charming
Zuzu
Unique and endearing repetition
Fifi
Frilly and cute sounding
Mimi
Sweet and soft sounding
Riri
Small and spirited
Toto
Childlike and sweet sounding
Yoyo
Playful and bouncy sounding
Gigi
Affectionate and soft sounding
Suki
Beloved (Japanese)
Aiko
Little loved one (Japanese)
Ren
Lotus (evokes purity and gentleness)
Lin
Precious jade (Chinese)
Bo
Precious, valuable (Chinese)
Mei
Beautiful (Chinese)
Kenji
Intelligent second son (Japanese, can be endearing)
Haru
Spring (Japanese, evokes new life)
Yuki
Snow (Japanese, evokes purity and softness)
Tama
Jewel, ball (Japanese, can be cute)
Kira
Glittering, shining (Russian)
Misha
Little bear (Russian nickname)
Sasha
Defender of mankind (Russian nickname, can be cute)
While individual kakapos might not be widely "famous" in the human sense, these names draw inspiration from significant figures, places, or concepts associated with their conservation and history, lending them a sense of recognition and importance within the kakapo world.
Name
Meaning
Richard Henry
Name of a significant kakapo from Fiordland who contributed greatly to research
Zealandia
Referring to the ecological sanctuary where many kakapo reside
Codfish
Referring to Codfish Island (Whenua Hou), a key kakapo sanctuary
Anchor
Referring to Anchor Island, another important kakapo sanctuary
Pearl
Name of a well-known kakapo
Esperance
Name of a location associated with kakapo conservation efforts
Sinbad
Name of a notable kakapo
Solstice
Can refer to a significant time of year, relevant to breeding cycles
Hokitika
A town near areas where kakapo were historically found
Stewart
Referring to Stewart Island (Rakiura), a historical kakapo habitat
Fiordland
A region in New Zealand where kakapo once thrived
Chalky
Referring to Chalky Island, a former kakapo sanctuary
Te Anau
A lake near Fiordland, associated with kakapo habitat
Manapouri
Another lake near Fiordland, associated with kakapo habitat
Ulva
Referring to Ulva Island, a pest-free sanctuary
Maud
Referring to Maud Island, another early sanctuary
Little Barrier
Referring to Hauturu-o-Toi / Little Barrier Island, a historic sanctuary
Great Barrier
Referring to Aotea / Great Barrier Island, where kakapo were once found
Kapiti
Referring to Kapiti Island, a significant nature reserve
Tiritiri
Referring to Tiritiri Matangi Island, a successful bird sanctuary
Orokonui
Referring to Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Bushy Park
Referring to Bushy Park Scenic Reserve
Pūkaha
Referring to Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre
Rotokare
Referring to Rotokare Scenic Reserve
Sanctuary
A general term for protected areas
Recovery
Reflecting the ongoing efforts to save the species
Hope
Symbolizing the optimism for the kakapo's future
Resilience
Highlighting the kakapo's ability to endure
Legacy
Representing the importance of their continued existence
Future
Looking forward to the survival of the species
Conservation
Directly referencing the efforts to protect them
Protection
Emphasizing the need to safeguard the kakapo
Survival
The ultimate goal of all efforts
Endemic
Highlighting their unique origin
Native
Emphasizing their belonging to New Zealand
Flightless
A key characteristic that sets them apart
Nocturnal
Another defining trait of kakapos
Boomer
Referring to their distinctive mating call
Mossy
Reflecting their often green-tinged plumage
Ancient
Highlighting their long evolutionary history
Unique
Emphasizing their one-of-a-kind nature
Special
Underscoring their importance
Rare
Acknowledging their vulnerable status
Precious
Reflecting their value to the ecosystem and culture
Iconic
Recognizing their status as a New Zealand symbol
National
Emphasizing their importance to the country
Wildlife
Acknowledging their place in the natural world
Ecology
Connecting them to their environment
Biodiversity
Highlighting their role in the ecosystem's variety
Good Kakapo Names
Here are some good Kakapo names with gentle sounds and nature-inspired meanings. They're friendly, fun, and fitting for these rare, lovable parrots with prominent personalities.
Name
Meaning
Hauora
Health, vitality, well-being (Māori)
Marama
Moon, light (Māori)
Rongo
Peace, harmony (Māori)
Wairua
Spirit, soul (Māori)
Koha
Gift, offering (Māori)
Ata
Morning, dawn (Māori)
Po
Night (Māori)
Rua
Two (can symbolize partnership in conservation)
Toru
Three (can symbolize community)
Wha
Four (can symbolize balance)
Lima
Five (can symbolize growth)
Ono
Six (can symbolize harmony)
Whitu
Seven (can symbolize completeness)
Waru
Eight (can symbolize abundance)
Iwa
Nine (can symbolize wisdom)
Tekau
Ten (can symbolize unity)
Kākāriki
Green (Māori, referring to color)
Parauri
Brown (Māori, referring to color)
Kowhai
Yellow (Māori, referring to color)
Mangu
Black (Māori, referring to color)
Mā
White, pure (Māori, referring to color)
Hinahina
Grey (Māori, referring to color)
Uira
Lightning (evoking energy)
Whatitiri
Thunder (evoking power)
Kapua
Cloud (evoking gentleness)
Hukarere
Snow (evoking purity)
Tio
Oyster (evoking resilience)
Koura
Crayfish (evoking resourcefulness)
Paua
Abalone (evoking beauty)
Toatoa
A native shrub (connection to habitat)
Harakeke
Flax (a useful native plant)
Kiekie
A native climbing plant
Nikau
A native palm tree
Ponga
Silver fern (a national symbol)
Tawa
A native forest tree
Totara
A large native forest tree
Houhere
Lacebark tree (beautiful native tree)
Rewarewa
Honeysuckle tree (native with striking flowers)
Kawakawa
Native shrub with medicinal uses
Koromiko
Native shrub with small leaves
Manuka
Native shrub with medicinal honey
Kanuka
Similar to manuka, another native shrub
Hebe
A genus of native flowering plants
Celmisia
A genus of native daisy-like plants
Ourisia
A genus of native alpine flowers
Ranunculus
Buttercup (some native species)
Gentian
Native alpine flowers
Anemone
Native alpine flowers
Edelweiss
A rare and beautiful alpine flower (not native, but evocative)
Unique Kakapo Names
These names are chosen for their distinctiveness and less common associations, aiming to provide a truly individual identity for a kakapo. They may draw inspiration from unusual aspects of their biology, behavior, or rare status.
Name
Meaning
Huna
Hidden, concealed (Māori, referring to their nocturnal nature)
Ngū
Silent (Māori, referring to their quiet movements)
Kōwhaiwhai
Ornamental patterns (Māori, reflecting the intricate patterns of nature)
Pōhutukawa
A native flowering tree (striking and unique)
Whio
Blue duck (another unique New Zealand native)
Tuatara
A unique ancient reptile of New Zealand
Weta
A unique group of New Zealand insects
Gecko
A type of lizard found in New Zealand
Skink
Another type of lizard found in New Zealand
Pīngao
A native golden sand sedge
Toetoe
A native grass with feathery plumes
Karetu
A native sweet grass
Taramea
Native spiky shrubs
Ongaonga
Native stinging nettle (unique defense)
Tawari
A native forest tree with distinctive leaves
Conclusion
Picking a name for a Kakapo should feel easy and personal. These birds are rare and full of personality, so giving them a name that suits who they are makes sense. There are plenty of great options, whether after something fun, classic, or unusual. Use the ideas here as a starting point; take your time and choose the right name.
FAQs
What are some good names for a Kakapo?
Good Kakapo names often reflect their color, nature, or uniqueness. Names like Mossy, Kākāriki (meaning "green" in Māori), Tui, or Whisper are great choices.
Can I use traditional or Māori-inspired names for my Kakapo?
Yes, many Kakapo names are inspired by Māori language and culture, honoring their New Zealand roots. Just be respectful in choosing and using names with cultural significance.
How does the Kakapo Name Generator work?
Our Kakapo Name Generator suggests names based on categories like personality, appearance, or theme. Simply click to explore creative, meaningful names tailored for this rare and lovable bird.