Watching Penguins in New Zealand
Penguins are some of the most exciting wildlife to observe in New Zealand. There are around six different species of penguins in New Zealand, with the most common being the little blue penguin and one of the rarest being the Fiordland crested penguin. Penguins are known to be seen all over New Zealand, but mostly on the South Island. It’s important to know what to do if you see a penguin, not only to experience the joys of observing their natural behaviour but in order to not disturb these threatened creatures. Follow our tips on what you can do to help keep New Zealand penguins safe.
For more information, see Where to Find Penguins in New Zealand and the 8 Best Places to See Penguins in New Zealand.
Table of Contents
1. Observe from a Distance
Penguins in New Zealand are extremely timid on land and are easily disturbed, which can lead to penguins abandoning their chicks. The best way to watch penguins, if you are lucky enough to spot some, is to observe them from a distance. It’s best to hide so that they can’t see you, keep quiet and keep still. If you have to move, move slowly.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Don’t Look for Burrows
Many of New Zealand’s penguins nest in coastal vegetation, so don’t rummage around these areas in case you disturb a nest. Never approach birds in their nests. Again, this can lead to the chicks being abandoned.
© pxhere3. Slow Down When Driving in Penguin Areas
On the coastal roads around the South Island, particularly around Dunedin, Akaroa, Oamaru and the West Coast, it’s common to see penguins crossing the roads at night on their way to nesting sites. These areas are usually signposted with a penguin road sign, so slow down in these areas and let the penguins cross the road.
© NZPocketGuide.com4. Don’t Approach a “Scruffy” Looking Penguin
Between November and March, penguins shed their feathers and grow new feathers each year. Penguins look a little “scruffy” at this time of the year, with many people mistaking moulting penguins for being sick. Leave moulting penguins alone, especially as it is the most stressful time of the year for penguins.
© pixabay5. Keep Dogs Away from Penguin Habitats
For those of you travelling with dogs, make sure you keep your dog on a leash near penguin nesting areas. On most beaches in the South Island, it’s best to keep your dog in control at all times. Keep your dog away from dunes or coastal vegetation especially, as dogs are known to kill penguins.
© pxhereMore About Penguins in New Zealand
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
- New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2025])
- New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2025])
- Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
- Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2025])
- DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
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