Ocean drama returns to Aquarium

Published: 19 December 2024

Last Updated: 20 December 2024

Penguin of the Year, Maggie, has had her mother Ocean move in just in time for Christmas, and Ocean’s story has plot-twists of soap-opera proportions.

The little penguin - kororā - has spent time at the National Aquarium of New Zealand rehabilitation centre in the past. She has now returned after suffering life-threatening injuries.

Rebekah Cuthbert, Supervisor Birds, National Aquarium says Ocean’s story is one of determination and survival.

“Ocean has had quite a journey and she’s withstood many of the threats little penguins face,” says Becs. “Her story is also a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in her care. From rehabilitation to surgery, her resilience is a message to all of us: Just keep going, no matter what comes your way. She’s an adventurer to her core.”

Back in August 2020, Ocean was nursing a broken flipper when she was brought to the National Aquarium. It was repaired at the Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery Centre, Palmerston North. She made a full recovery and was released back into the wild at Napier Port’s penguin sanctuary. Ocean was microchipped, allowing the Port’s environmental advisory team and Massey University researchers, led by Dr John Cockrem, to track her. This included swimming long distances, as far as Waimarama. She raised chicks for a while during the 2023 breeding season, eventually abandoning the nest. One of her offspring, Maggie, was successfully rescued and hand-reared by the National Aquarium team. In September this year, Ocean was found with a severe eye injury, requiring surgery. Her limited vision means she cannot return to her natural habitat.

“Ocean has settled in well at Penguin Cove. She has turned a few heads, including Timmy’s, Dave’s and Eric’s but spurned their advances by choosing to move in with Martin and Burny,” explains Becs. “Martin is quite territorial but has fallen for her charms. I’m not sure of Burny’s views but they seem to make a happy trio.”

Penguin Cove functions as a Little Penguin rehabilitation centre, assisting with recovery of sick or injured birds.

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