Exciting New Ambassador Kororā Encounter

The Little Blue Penguin, or kororā in te reo Māori, holds the distinction of being the smallest penguin species on Earth. These diminutive birds stand at only about 30cm tall and weigh a mere 1kg. Found across the coastlines of New Zealand and in Southern Australia (where they are often called Fairy Penguins), they prefer sheltered bays, rocky coasts, and offshore islands for their habitats.

A group of penguins with wet feathers stands on a sandy surface near water

Fun information about our Korora Penguins

Unlike the larger, more famous penguins associated with the icy landscapes of the Antarctic, little blue penguins are unique in that they thrive in temperate and sometimes even urban environments. They are one of only three penguin species that regularly breed on New Zealand’s mainland, alongside the Hoiho (Yellow-eyed penguin) and the Tawaki (Fiordland crested penguin). Despite this, a remarkable 13 of the world's 18 penguin species can be found in New Zealand waters at various times.

To avoid predators, particularly during the day, these small birds are nocturnal on land. They typically come ashore only after dark to rest and attend to their nests, which they construct in burrows, under dense vegetation, or surprisingly, even beneath human-made structures like buildings.

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A small penguin with a gray and white body stands on a pebbled surface, wearing an orange tag on its wing.

A penguin swims gracefully in clear blue water, its black and white feathers glistening under the sunlight.

About the Little Blue Penguin (Kororā)

Also known as kororā in te reo Māori, the little blue penguin is the world’s smallest penguin — standing around 30cm tall and weighing just 1kg.

Found around New Zealand’s coastlines, especially in sheltered bays, rocky shores, and offshore islands, they’re also seen in southern Australia, where they’re called fairy penguins.

Kororā are one of only three penguin species that breed on New Zealand’s mainland, alongside the hoiho and tawaki.

Unlike their Antarctic relatives, little blues live in temperate and even urban environments — coming ashore after dark to nest in burrows, under vegetation, or beneath buildings.

Life of the Little Blue Penguin

Kororā are nocturnal on land, coming ashore at night to avoid predators, and diurnal at sea, feeding by day on small fish, squid, and crustaceans.

They’re excellent swimmers, reaching speeds of up to 8km/h and diving as deep as 70m — sometimes travelling 25km offshore to feed.

Once a year, they undergo a ‘catastrophic moult’, staying on land for 2–3 weeks while regrowing feathers and surviving on stored fat.

Kororā usually return to the same nesting sites each year, though they aren’t strictly monogamous. Breeding runs from July to December, with 1–2 eggs per clutch and chicks fledging at around 8 weeks old.

A small penguin with black and white feathers stands on a rocky surface near water

A penguin with a red tag on its wing stands among rocks, with other penguins visible in the background.

A small penguin stands on the edge of a blue pool, with another swimming in the water. Green leaves partially frame the scene.

A Self Guided 48-Hour General Pass

As well as our unique indoor attraction, we also run a very popular local gift store. Looking for the best coffee in Franz Josef! Guest tells us that our Café is a relaxing place to grab a drink and our bakery can make you a packed lunch for your day out exploring!

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Person feeding fish to penguins, with penguins eagerly reaching for the food.

A penguin swimming in clear blue water with its wings spread, creating ripples around it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What penguins can I see?

Little blue penguins, known as kororā in te reo Māori. They are the world's smallest penguin, about 30 cm tall and around 1 kg, and they live in a purpose-built Ambassador Penguin Encounter.

What is an Ambassador Penguin?

Rescued little blue penguins that cannot be released back into the wild. They live in a specially designed habitat where visitors learn about them and their conservation story.

Where do little blue penguins live in the wild?

Along New Zealand's coastal shores and offshore islands, often in sheltered bays and rocky coasts. Kororā typically come ashore at night to avoid predators and attend to their nests.

When is the penguin feeding?

Live penguin feeding runs twice daily, usually at 11am and 3pm. The times can change on the day, so please confirm at reception when you arrive.

Can I photograph the penguins?

Yes, and feel free to post on social media. Flash photography is not permitted near the penguins, and you cannot touch them.

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