Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony

Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is located at the end of Waterfront Road in an old quarry. The admission fee to the viewing platforms - with a commentary provided - contributes towards the research and support of the colony which has been managed since 1993. At nightfall you can see the little blue penguins waddle out of the sea and make their way to their nests in the cliffs. The little blues are the smallest of the 17 species of penguins - only about 25 cms (10 inches) tall. The colony has the greatest population (90 - 150) in November and December, and from September on you can see the chicks.