Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony
A colony of little blue penguins, the smallest penguin species in the world. At sunset, watch groups waddle ashore from the sea from the viewing stands.
The colony is located in a former quarry south of the old harbour and is New Zealand's most famous spot for watching little blue penguins. Every evening at dusk, these birds, only about 30 cm tall, come ashore in groups and waddle across the rocks to their nest boxes. During breeding season, hundreds may arrive in a single night. There are general viewing stands and closer premium stands, and you should book tickets in advance. Daytime guided tours of the nesting area are also available. Photography and flash are not allowed while viewing the penguins. Evenings can be very cold, so bring a warm jacket.
Opening hours
Open daily; evening penguin-viewing times vary with sunset
Nearby sights
- Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve
- Steampunk HQ
- Victorian Precinct
- Forrester Gallery
- Ōamaru Opera House
- Ōamaru Public Gardens
- Totara Estate
- Riverstone Castle