PENGUINS FIRST TIMARU
Penguins First Timaru is devoted to providing a safe and nurturing environment for Timaru's Little Blue Penguin / Kororā.
View the Kororā for FREE from Marine Parade, Caroline Bay from November to February every year.
Timaru's Little Blue Penguin / Kororā
Nestled along Timaru’s stunning coastline, Caroline Bay is home to one of New Zealand’s most charming coastal residents — the little blue penguin, or kororā. Standing just 30 centimetres tall, these delightful seabirds are the world’s smallest penguins, easily recognised by their soft blue plumage.
As evening falls, watch the magic unfold as kororā waddle ashore to their nesting burrows after a day of fishing at sea — a heart-warming sight for all.
Protect our penguins
Your dog can injure or even kill us. Please keep them away from the nesting areas at each end of the beach.
NO DOGS on the beach from 1 October - 31 March
Please stay off the rocks. This is where our nests are, and it scares us.
Please give us space to come and go from our nests. Please stay at least 20 metres away (21 yards) from us.
The best place to view us is from the footpath on Marine Parade.
No fires to be lit on the beach or sand dunes at any time.
We love posing for photos, but please don't use your flash as it hurts our eyes.
Please stick to the marked paths and boardwalks.
If you see a penguin who is injured, please phone the DOC helpline on 0800 362 468.
To report dogs harassing penguins, please phone Timaru District Council on 03 687 7200
Penguins First Timaru are a dedicated group of local volunteers who work to care and provide a safe nesting environment for the Little Blue Penguins who live along Caroline Bay's shores.
You'll find volunteers along Marine Parade nightly from October to February to provide information and ensure a pleasant and safe experience for both visitors and the penguins.
Penguins First Timaru is a charitable organisation that relies on donations to provide care and protection for Timaru's Little Blue Penguins.
Timaru's Little Blue Penguins / Kororā are free to view, however, donations would be greatly appreciated to support the care of this vulnerable species.