If you want to see wildlife in New Zealand, then there’s no better place to start than the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony! This is an incredible opportunity to see the world’s smallest penguins in their natural environment, as you watch the colony return home from their day of fishing.

Where is the Blue Penguin Colony?

The Oamaru Penguin Colony is about 5 minutes from the centre of North Otago's largest town. You'll find the colony about a 3 hour drive south from Christchurch, or 90 minute drive north from Dunedin.

The Blue Penguin Colony was established in 1972 with conservation at the heart of it’s operation. Their site provides nests and protection for our waddling friends, with much of the admission money going towards better protection. In your visit, you’ll watch the penguins make their way onto the beach, and cross into the reservation. The expert guide will provide a commentary, so you’ll be told everything you need to know about the curious lives of the little penguins. From the general stand, you’ll see the penguins from as close as 10-15 metres away. A space on the premium viewing will grant you the opportunity to see the penguins from only a few metres away, where you can also view the breeding colony space itself from the grand walkway.

If you’re in Otago, don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to see penguins in their natural habitat!

  • General entry starts at NZ$36.
  • Premium viewing starts at NZ$49.50.
  • Check this page for the table of start times on your booking date.
  • Viewings last for about 60-90 minutes.
  • Parking available on site.

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