Thank you everyone. I guess by Parakeet we're actually on the same wave length here, except we call them Cockatiels, unless of course we're talking about two totally different types of bird.

Another option to the Cockatiel is a Budgerigar, and they will also talk if got young enough, but I really would prefer my first option if possible. We had little Peach Faced Parakeets when we had our aviary, and although they don't talk, DH grew to really love each of them so I know he would treasure this one.

Step one is underway. I've contacted the agents who leased us the house, and they'll contact the owners who actually live in New Zealand and let me know the verdict. I had to be a bit sneaky and ask that they don't phone back with the answer incase DH answers the call.
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I think they'd be pretty awful if they refused, and as for that gold-fish Corky, that's just darn mean!