Penguin Place

Yellow Eyed Penguins are the worlds most endangered penguin, and live only in south east areas of New Zealand waters, on our mainland estimated numbers are as low as 700 individuals. The species is the third tallest and weigh between 5-6 kg and are capable of living to 20-25 years old, unfortunately today most of them will never reach breeding age.

Since the arrival of man, extinction has become a real threat, this land was once forested and free of land predators. The lack of suitable breeding areas, mammal predation and human disturbance are three key reasons for the decline. Here at Penguin Place all three issues are combated through our project, each year a few thousand native trees are planted back in the reserve, plus by providing nest boxes- the same shade, privacy and security is gained in an immediate solution.

On-going predator control ensures a safer environment and by conducting guided tours the wildlife is left undisturbed which allows them to behave naturally. Our own scientist carries out a research programme, from this we have in-depth records of the individuals lives, breeding success, ages etc. By continually monitoring the breeding between three separate colonies we keep tabs to ensure our tours do not impact in the birds success.

While monitoring we keep an eye out for any penguins in trouble, our Penguin hospital gives a second chance at life for any who are wounded, malnourished or chicks who have been abandoned. We have a very high success in rehabilitation and our efforts are not only aiding our private colonies, but the entire coast. Penguins found elsewhere in need are brought here for us to care for.

Visitors have the opportunity to visit a working conservation program and to experience and photograph undisturbed penguin activity at close range through a unique system of hides and covered tunnels. The reserve is a private conservation effort to save one of the world’s most endangered penguins, the yellow-eyed penguin, from extinction.  The reserve is funded entirely through the profits from the Penguin Place tour operation.