Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony
The award-winning sanctuary has masterfully bridged the gap between sustainability, conservation, and ethical tourism.
Nestled on the coast of Ōamaru, New Zealand, the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony is an extraordinary place where visitors can witness the world’s smallest penguins.
Every aspect of their work – from research and ticket sales to monitoring and penguin adoptions – feeds directly back into fostering the kororā (little blue penguin).
Science and Environmental Manager Dr Philippa Agnew says each season at the colony offers something special.
“No matter when you visit, you will get a unique and unforgettable experience and will leave with a deeper appreciation for these precious birds,” Dr Agnew says.
“This colony is an integral part of our identity in Waitaki. Thousands of people have been coming here for decades - it never gets old seeing how people get so captivated by our precious kororā.”
No matter the season, make sure to include a visit to the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony on your travel itinerary and discover the magic of the little blue penguins.
Leading sustainable tourism
The Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony is an inspiring example of sustainable tourism and conservation. Since its establishment in 1993, it has made strides in protecting and nurturing the little blue penguins. This success is largely due to the dedicated team of scientists, conservationists, and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the wellbeing of the penguin population.
Recent investments by the colony have enabled the construction of a rehabilitation facility to care for sick or injured penguins, the installation of an underpass to help penguins transit to their nests, and special platforms to weigh penguins as they leave and enter the colony.
The breeding penguins are supported with durable nesting boxes, predator control measures, and ongoing monitoring and research programmes. GPS dataloggers are used to track the penguins’ movements at sea too, identifying important foraging areas.
More recently, miniature video loggers have been attached to them to further understand the penguins’ marine environment. Research has revealed the significant impact storms can have on the penguins – and it’s an issue expected to worsen with climate change.
The colony has managed to increase the population from 30 breeding pairs to now over 200. Led by Dr Philippa Agnew since 2006, it has delivered world-class environmental research.
Agnew says, ultimately, it’s visitors that are making this happen.
“Without our visitors, we simply wouldn’t be able to fund our conservation and research work. By simply observing our adorable penguins, every visitor is directly contributing to the welfare of our kororā,” Dr Agnew says.
The colony fully funds its own long-term conservation programme. Visitors can support these efforts by adopting a
penguin or purchasing merchandise.
In recognition of these sustainability and conservation measures, the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony was awarded the prestigious Qualmark Gold award last year. This accolade is New Zealand’s official mark of quality for tourism businesses, signifying excellence in sustainable tourism practices, visitor experience, and environmental management.
“This award is a testament to our dedication to creating a positive impact on both the environment and the local community,” Dr Agnew says.
“I’m proud that we can act as a model for other tourism operations and show them it’s possible to provide an exceptional visitor experience while prioritising the well-being of our precious wildlife,” she says.
The Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony is a true gem of New Zealand, offering a year-round experience that entertains and inspires. Marvel at the penguins’ nightly return all year, whether its over a long summer evening, during the tranquility of an autumn visit, wrapped up warm in winter or while celebrating new beginnings in spring, the colony provides an unforgettable encounter every time.
Summer: A season of activity
Summer is a bustling time at the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony. As the days grow longer and warmer, the penguins are particularly active, with many adults returning to their nests to feed their growing chicks. Visitors can enjoy extended evening viewing hours, beginning between 7pm and 9pm, and finishing between 8.30pm and 11pm. The grandstand seating offers a front-row view of the penguins’ nightly return from the sea, accompanied by expert commentary that provides fascinating insights into their behaviour and lifecycle.
Day tours are equally as busy and entertaining, with the chance to explore the colony’s interactive display area and research facilities. Here, guests can delve into the world of blue penguins, learning about their habits and the conservation efforts that support their thriving population.
Autumn: A quieter encounter
As the leaves start to fall and the temperature starts to cool, autumn brings a more intimate experience at the colony. The crowds disperse, offering a more personal and calmer visit. Evening viewing times shift earlier to accommodate fewer daylight hours, starting between 5pm and 6.30pm and ending by 8.30pm. This season is perfect for those who prefer a more peaceful encounter with nature, free from the hustle and bustle of summer tourists.
During autumn, the penguins undergo a significant phase in their lifecycle, with many undergoing their annual moult. This process can be observed in the specially designed viewing room, where visitors can marvel at the penguins in their nesting boxes, shedding old feathers and growing new ones. The peaceful autumn season allows for visitors to closely observe these remarkable birds and learn about the incredible efforts to ensure their conservation.
Winter: A season of resilience
Winter at the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony shows visitors the adaptability of the little blue penguins. Despite the colder temperatures, the penguins continue their daily routines, braving the chilly waters to find food.
Evening viewings during winter begin between 5pm and 6.30pm and end at 8.30pm. The shorter daylight hours create a cosy atmosphere, perfect for witnessing the penguins’ return under a starlit sky. Wrap up warm and snuggle into the viewing areas to watch the smallest residents of Ōamaru waddle ashore after a day out at sea.
The funds raised from ticket sales and penguin adoptions play a crucial role in sustaining the colony’s conservation and research programmes. This includes year-round predator control measures, habitat maintenance, and ongoing monitoring of the penguin population, ensuring their long-term stability.
Spring: A fresh start
Spring is a season of renewal and rejuvenation at the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony. With the arrival of warmer weather and longer days, the penguins become more active, preparing for the breeding season. Witness the start of this exciting time, with penguins courting, nesting, and laying eggs.
Evening viewings in spring start between 7pm and 9pm and end by 11pm to make the most of the increased activity and longer daylight hours. The display area and nesting boxes are bustling at this time of year, with many penguins busy with their preparations for raising chicks.
Spring also marks the beginning of the peak tourist season but for those seeking a quieter experience, early spring visits offer the perfect balance. The reduced crowds and mild weather create an ideal setting for exploring the space and learning about the conservation efforts.
Need to know
Families are welcome at the colony but viewing numbers are limited, so book in advance.
Cameras are prohibited as noise, movement, and lights can cause disturbance to the penguins, making it difficult for them to navigate back to the safety of their colony.
About Ōamaru
Ōamaru is a unique town in New Zealand’s Waitaki District, most famous for the colony, its Steampunk community, and the stunning limestone architecture. It also makes up one end of the Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail, New Zealand’s most spectacular cycle trail.
Just a short drive away, you’ll also find an abundance of natural geological treasures at the Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark – more than 40 sites make up this world-class site of geological and cultural features.
While you’re in Ōamaru, be sure to explore the Victorian Precinct. This beautifully preserved streetscape is home to quirky shops, captivating art, and stunning architecture.
Blue Penguin Colony
