Penguin Rescue
LOOKING AFTER OUR LITTLE BLUES
The Kororā (Little Blue Penguin) is New Zealand’s smallest penguin, and in our expert opinion - the cutest. Whether scuttling over rocks or diving for food, these incredible birds are small in stature but big on entertaining.
Animal Facts
Kororā Little Blue Penguin
The Little Blue Penguin is the smallest species of penguin originating from New Zealand. Primarily nocturnal on land, they are sometimes found close to human settlements, often nesting under or around coastal buildings, keeping locals up at night with their noisy vocal displays.
Distribution
Australia, New Zealand
Conservation Status
Declining
Threats
Dogs, Predation, Humans
Weight
1.5kg
Lifespan
6 years
Height
43cm
ABOUT PENGUIN RESCUE
Penguin Rescue at the International Antarctic Centre is New Zealand’s first combined indoor/ outdoor penguin viewing area. It can hold up to 26 Little Blue Penguins and allows our visitors to view the penguins in a Banks Peninsula natural-themed environment. These penguins only grow to 43cm tall, and their average life span is 6.5 years.
These are wild birds, and occasionally we need to change their feeding times to suit their day. Watch them swim, play and dine from the outdoor viewing area or downstairs in the pool auditorium. At both spots, you’ll get a good view of the natural behaviours of these cute little birds.
Make the most of your visit
guided tour
Penguin Backstage Experience
There’s a lot going on behind the scenes in making sure our flipper-flapping friends are healthy and happy. Take an exclusive tour behind the scenes and you’ll get to experience it all. It’s the closest you can get to the penguin life without diving right in.
From $129/PP
guided tour
Antarctic Guided Tours
Join a two hour, immersive guided tour experience led by one of our passionate Antarctic Guides. With captivating storytelling and expert insight, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what it’s really like to live and work on the coldest, driest, windiest place on Earth.