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The National Aquarium of New Zealand can reveal that Ocean, a resilient one-eyed kororā (little penguin), has been crowned Penguin of the Year 2026, taking the title from 15 other feathered contenders housed at the Aquarium’s Penguin Cove.
With thousands of votes cast from as far away as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Costa Rica, Finland, Thailand and Panama, Ocean was a clear winner, capturing hearts around the world with her remarkable journey from rescued seabird to beloved Aquarium resident.
Amy Stevens, Education Manager at the National Aquarium of New Zealand, believes Ocean’s story of resilience and survival resonated strongly with voters. “Ocean first arrived at our rescue and rehabilitation hospital in 2020 with a serious flipper injury,” says Amy. “She was cared for by our experienced animal care team and veterinary specialists, and after making a full recovery, released back into the wild with a microchip, helping researchers learn more about kororā and their movements.”
Four years later, though, Ocean returned to the Aquarium’s care following a significant injury to her eye. “It was clear Ocean would not be able to survive independently at sea and she was given a permanent home at the National Aquarium, where she continues to receive expert care,” Amy continues.
Ocean’s struggles in the wild also had an impact on her daughter, Maggie. “Maggie was brought to us suffering from malnourishment, which was likely linked to Ocean being unable to successfully hunt and provide food while injured. Today, both mother and daughter live safely together in Penguin Cove. Watching them thrive side by side is incredibly special for both our team and visitors.”
Now, this resilient one-eyed penguin spends her days swimming, socialising with the colony, enjoying her daily fish feeds and delighting the hundreds of visitors who pass through Penguin Cove each day.
Now in its ninth year, Penguin of the Year continues to celebrate the unique personalities and stories of the National Aquarium’s resident kororā, while helping to raise awareness of the challenges these remarkable seabirds face in the wild.
“We think Ocean is an incredibly deserving winner,” says Amy. “Her story highlights both the challenges our native kororā face and the important role rescue, rehabilitation and conservation care can play in giving these birds a second chance.
“There will be a special bucket of fish for breakfast to celebrate!”
