Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Witness the world's smallest penguins waddle ashore at dusk in Oamaru, a truly enchanting wildlife spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Penguins return home
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Best Time
Penguins return home
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the world's smallest penguins waddle ashore at dusk in Oamaru, a truly enchanting wildlife spectacle.
"A breathtaking moment when they do come in and awesome to see them up close. "
🧥 Dress Warmly!
It gets cold by the sea, especially in the evenings. Pack layers, gloves, and beanies.
🪑 Bring a Cushion
The grandstand seating can be uncomfortable; a cushion or blanket is recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Nightly Penguin Parade
Grandstand viewing area
Witness hundreds of the world's smallest penguins return from sea to their burrows at dusk.
Seals Lounging on the Shore
Near the penguin colony
Observe playful seals basking on the rocks and beach, often visible during the day for free.
Conservation and Rehabilitation Center
Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony facility
Learn about the colony's efforts to protect and rehabilitate sick or injured little blue penguins.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Penguin Arrivals
Respect the Rules: No Photos Allowed
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress Warmly!
It gets cold by the sea, especially in the evenings. Pack layers, gloves, and beanies.
🪑 Bring a Cushion
The grandstand seating can be uncomfortable; a cushion or blanket is recommended.
⏳ Be Patient
Penguins take their time returning. Enjoy the wait; it's part of the experience.
🚫 No Photos Allowed
Protecting the penguins is key. No cameras or phones during viewing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress Warmly!
It gets cold by the sea, especially in the evenings. Pack layers, gloves, and beanies.
🪑 Bring a Cushion
The grandstand seating can be uncomfortable; a cushion or blanket is recommended.
⏳ Be Patient
Penguins take their time returning. Enjoy the wait; it's part of the experience.
🚫 No Photos Allowed
Protecting the penguins is key. No cameras or phones during viewing.
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Purchase online or in person; your fee supports conservation efforts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony for its unique and heartwarming experience of watching the world's smallest penguins return home. The opportunity to see seals for free and the colony's conservation efforts are also highly appreciated. Some find the no-photo rule disappointing and suggest bringing comfort for the grandstand seating.
"Was a great experience for us and the kids, all had a great time. Lots of seals to see around the area as well. We had a little one and he did well for a 2year old but they do take their time coming home of course so just to expect might take up to an hour for them to all come home slowly but a breathtaking moment when they do come in and awesome to see them up close. Not allowed to take photos or videos of the penguins which is disappointing to not be able to capture the moment, maybe a green screen picture you’re able to purchase at the end? A lot of other places let you take photos and videos but just no flash but rules are rules and still enjoyed the experience. Would definitely come back if we’re back in town."
Haley brown
"We loved this experience, it was amazing to see all the Penguins as they climbed up the rocky bank to come back to their hutches. There were tons of seals the day we went and that meant there was also plenty of entertainment from them.
We sat in the general admission area and while I think the VIP seating had a slightly better angle of the Penguins as they climber up the rocks, quite a lot of the Penguins have discovered short cuts that walk through the general seating grandstand which was incredibly exciting.
We went in September and it was really cold so definitely recommend rugging up, with gloves and Beanies. Also consider whether you are allowed to bring your own cushion or blanket it to sit on as the grandstand isn't very comfortable.
Would absolutely recommend this experience and the guides were very knowledgeable and friendly.
Note you aren't allowed to take pictures of the Penguins."
Kate McLaren
"The best customer service.
Although we couldn’t wait to see the penguins the staff was still patiently explaining my questions! I will definitely buy tickets next time!!!!
You can still see heaps of seals lying on the beach For free!"
Chutima Sapsuwan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is located at 17 Waterfront Road, South Hill, Oamaru 9400, New Zealand. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for tours visiting Oamaru.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the colony. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Yes, you can purchase tickets directly at the colony or online to visit the viewing areas. Many visitors opt for independent travel to experience the penguins.
Oamaru is a walkable town, especially the historic precinct. For the penguin colony, driving or taking a taxi is convenient. Rental cars are also a good option for exploring the wider region.
While direct public transport to the colony might be limited, local taxis or ride-sharing services can be used. Many visitors arrive by car as part of a South Island road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically range from $18-40 USD, with proceeds supporting conservation and research. It's best to check the official website for current pricing and booking options.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to guarantee your spot. You can purchase tickets online or at the colony.
The colony is open for daytime viewing of seals and the facility, but the main event, the blue penguin return, happens at dusk. Check their website for specific evening viewing times.
Discounts may be available for families, children, or group bookings. It's worth checking the official Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony website or contacting them directly for any current offers.
While the penguin viewing experience requires a ticket, you can often see seals lounging on the beach for free during the day near the colony.
🎫 🐧 Penguin Viewing Experience
The best time to see the blue penguins is at dusk as they return from their day at sea to their nests. The exact time varies with sunset.
No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited within the viewing areas to avoid disturbing the penguins.
It can take up to an hour for all the penguins to return to their burrows. Patience is key, and the wait is part of the experience.
VIP seating may offer a slightly better angle, but many penguins take shortcuts through the general seating grandstand, making it an exciting experience for all.
While sightings are very common, as they are wild animals, there's no absolute guarantee. However, the colony's efforts and the penguins' routine make sightings highly probable.
🎫 🦭 Wildlife & Environment
Yes, you can often see seals lounging on the nearby beaches and rocks during the day, which is a free bonus attraction.
The colony is a breeding site and rehabilitation center for little blue penguins, caring for sick or injured birds and contributing to research.
The penguins nest in burrows along the coastline. The colony provides a protected environment for them to return to after foraging at sea.
While Oamaru is famous for its Little Blue Penguins, Yellow-eyed penguins are found in other parts of the South Island, such as Dunedin.
Oamaru can experience cool and windy weather, especially by the coast. It's advisable to check the forecast and dress in layers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the day, the free seal viewing is a great bonus for families, offering more wildlife entertainment without an extra cost. The colony's educational aspect, highlighting conservation efforts, can also be a valuable learning experience for children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For those interested in capturing the essence of the colony, focus on the scenic coastal landscape and the architecture of the viewing areas. Some visitors have managed to capture brief clips of the penguins' calls outside the restricted zones.
Professional photographers might find opportunities to capture the colony's facilities or the release of rehabilitated penguins, if permitted. ❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Combine your visit with a stroll through Oamaru's charming historic precinct or enjoy a quiet dinner. The experience of sharing this natural spectacle, even with the no-photo rule, creates a special bond and a shared memory.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Little Blue Penguin (Kororā)
+2These penguins are primarily found along the coastlines of southern Australia and New Zealand. The Oamaru colony plays a crucial role in their conservation, acting as both a breeding ground and a rehabilitation center for injured or sick individuals. Visitors can learn about their fascinating lives and the efforts made to protect them.
+1Witnessing their return to shore at dusk is a truly magical experience. The colony provides a safe viewing platform where you can observe their natural behavior without disturbing them, a testament to the importance of responsible wildlife tourism.
+1The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony Experience
While the main attraction is the penguins, the colony also offers opportunities to see seals lounging on the nearby shores during the day, often for free. This adds another layer of wildlife encounters to your visit. The colony also functions as a rehabilitation center, showcasing their commitment to the welfare of these unique birds.
+1It's important to remember that this is a natural habitat, and rules are in place to protect the penguins. The most significant is the no photography or videography rule during the evening viewing. This ensures the penguins are not stressed or scared, allowing them to return to their homes undisturbed.
Conservation and Community Impact
Visitors contribute to this mission simply by attending the evening viewing. The colony also works to rehabilitate sick or injured penguins, giving them a second chance at life in the wild. This dedication to animal welfare is a core part of their identity and a significant draw for ethically-minded travelers.
By choosing to visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, you're not only experiencing a unique natural wonder but also actively supporting the preservation of a vulnerable species and their environment. It's a powerful reminder of how tourism can positively impact wildlife conservation.
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