Korimako (bellbirds) are the most widespread and familiar honeyeater in the South Island. Their song is a welcome sound in mainland forests that otherwise may have little native bird song.

Korimako have a brush-like tongue which is used to reach deeply into flowers to reach nectar, but they also feed on fruits and insects. In feeding on nectar they play an important ecological role in pollinating the flowers of many native trees and shrubs.