16/07/2026
We are introducing biosecurity measures in response to the first reported HPAI case in New Zealand, to ensure ongoing protection of our kororā/little penguins and fur seals.
From today, you will notice foot wash stations at the entrances to both the penguin colony building and the seal viewing area. We’re asking everyone visiting these areas to help protect wildlife by using the foot wash stations. This simple biosecurity measure helps reduce the risk of inadvertently moving disease into sensitive wildlife habitat.
At this stage, our rehabilitation facility remains operational, and we will continue responding to reports of sick or injured little penguins requiring assistance.
If you have questions about HPAI, our penguins, or the measures we are putting in place, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team.
We need the community’s help to keep an eye out for unusual wildlife mortality and report it according to MPI guidance:
• Please report three or more sick or dead birds or marine mammals (such as seals) in the same place at the same time by calling MPI's Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66.
• Please do not touch sick or dead wildlife and keep your distance.
