Vote Hoiho for Bird of the Year

Hoiho / yellow-eyed penguins are one of the rarest penguins in the world, with only about 131 breeding pairs left on mainland New Zealand. If current declines are not reversed, scientists predict that these extraordinary birds could be extinct on our mainland within the next 10-20 years.

Known for their shy nature, yellow-eyed penguins hide their nests in dense vegetation, but their distinctive shrill call earns them the te reo Māori name hoiho, which means ‘noise shouter’. This unique feature makes them stand out, even as their numbers continue to dwindle.

By collaborating with local organisations such as the Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust, The OPERA, Dunedin's Wildlife Hospital, NZ Festival of Nature – Wild Dunedin, Enterprise Dunedin, Orokonui Ecosanctuary, Monarch Wildlife Cruises, Otago Highlanders, Labour MP Rachel Brooking, and Otago's Department of Conservation, Dunedin is coming together to raise awareness and advocate for the hoiho.

Our campaign includes engaging displays at Tūhura Otago Museum, educational events, and a strong social media and PR push. We are excited to have the backing of notable figures like Terri Irwin, Dr Jane Goodall, Green MP Scott Willis, Tom Sainsbury, Suzy Cato, and Helen Clark. Together, we aim to highlight the plight of the hoiho and ensure this penguin receives the recognition it deserves.

Let’s show the world Dunedin’s commitment to wildlife conservation. Vote for the hoiho and help make a difference for this remarkable penguin.