Banks Peninsula penguins

This project, in partnership with Pōhatu Penguins in Akaroa focuses on a Banks Peninsula-wide population assessment Survey, conducted between October 2020 and January 2021.

The White-flippered penguins (Eudyptula minor albosignata) are an endemic species only found in Banks Peninsula and Motunau Island. Although initially thought to be a sub-species of the little blue penguin / kororā, they are in fact a genetically distinct species.

The last population survey was conducted in 2000/2001 and 2001/2002 and counted 68 colonies, with 2112 nests (1650 on Motunau Island), accounting to ~10,460 birds. Latest population data accounts for 74 nesting sites, with regular surveys conducted at the Pohatū Marine Reserve at Flea Bay.

This citizen science project involves local communities across Banks Peninsula and coming from Ōtautahi-Christchurch, with support from non-for-profit and education partners. It brings together volunteers coordinated by Pōhatu penguins, the Department of Conservation with support from the Antarctic Centre.

Blue Cradle produced a documentary in partnership with Kororātahi Creative, co-directing with Kerepeti Paraone from Ngāti Wheke, Rāpaki hāpū in Whakaraupō. This 30-minute documentary is aimed at wide audiences, promoting the conservation of little penguins, and telling the unique story of the Helps family at Pōhatu and the people of Banks Peninsula that are connected to this unique species.

The film was screened during Seaweek in 2021 in Akaroa, Christchurch and across NZ.

If you’d like to support this project, contact us.