Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust

Of all the species of penguins, the yellow-eyed is one of the world's rarest. Recent estimates consider that only 1200 -1600 breeding pairs remain, of which only 500 are on mainland New Zealand.

Its Maori name is "Hoiho" meaning, "the noise shouter". It breeds on the south east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, and as far south as sub Antarctic Campbell Island.

The Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust was formed in 1987 in order to put in place a conservation programme that would save the penguins. Working closely with the Department of Conservation, the aim was to restore the coastal forest and control predators. A Plant Nursery was established and a field officer was appointed. Up to 5,000 native plants are now raised each year from locally collected seeds.

Cooke Howlison Toyota provided the Trust with a four wheel drive truck, but it was in 1989 when Mainland Products Ltd. became the major sponsor, with a guaranteed $75000 a year donation, that the Trust was really able to see a future and grow. The plight of the penguin was extensively advertised on TV, growing in membership to well over 3000 throughout the country.

Priority was given to education and awareness of the problems affecting the Yellow-eyed penguins. Educational resource kits were sent to every school in New Zealand, research work was funded, and the number of habitats managed grew.

In 1990 the first property was purchased. Behind the practical fieldwork are many hours of planning and organizing. The nine volunteer Trustees are now assisted by full time and part time staff.

Penguin numbers are still below sustainable levels, but it could have been a lot worse had it not been for everyone who contributed, large or small, to the conservation of this unique bird - The Yellow-eyed penguin. Thank you very much for helping us help the Yellow-eyed Penguin