Self Drive Evening Penguin Tour

Pōhatu is the largest Australasian Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand, and for more than three decades the local family has been dedicated to protecting Kororā, also known as the White Flippered Penguin, Canterbury’s own unique variant of the Australasian Little Penguin. The experience begins with a scenic drive across Akaroa’s extinct volcanic landscape, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities along the way. On arrival at the peaceful setting of Pōhatu Bay, you will set out on a guided walk around the colony to monitor nesting sites, gaining firsthand insight into the long term conservation work that helps protect these penguins from introduced predators.

As you take part in the monitoring program, you will learn in depth about penguin behavior, daily routines, and the challenges they face, while enjoying the rare opportunity to observe the birds up close. From specially designed hides, you can watch penguins undisturbed as they socialize on the water using provided binoculars and telescopes. As evening approaches, there is a strong chance of seeing penguins returning to shore and resting on the rocks before heading to their nests. The tour concludes before darkness falls, allowing the penguins to move freely and feed their chicks without disturbance, while you leave with a deeper appreciation of their fragile world.