Ranking: 10/10

Well worth a visit! Short track down to a wooden shed/lookout point. We saw 4 Yellow Eyed penguins and 3 sea lions. Be prepared for the wind as it is very exposed, and binoculars are a must. Not walking distance from the town, so best to drive here, ample parking.

Reviewed 12 months ago

Ranking: 8/10

The penguins are fairly far from the viewing platform but some keen eyes, binoculars and a big lens we saw quite a number. If you do go, don't give up although it says 4pm I think it was much nearer 6pm before they made an appearance and some people had left - we nearly did.
There are some places you can pay to see penguins but I like that this was authentic and wild, everyone peacefully waiting. There are also places you can see penguins, sometimes yellow eyed, closer but again I like that they are left alone not disturbed by humans as they should be.
Some sea lions for pre-entertainment. So glad we waited.

Reviewed about 1 year ago and experienced in February 2017

Ranking: 8/10

Walk itself was not all that special. Seeing the penguins on the beach, however was really nice to see. They are quite far away.

Reviewed over 2 years ago and experienced in March 2016

Ranking: 2/10

No penguins and only one seal in the afternoon. There are better places.

Reviewed about 3 years ago

Ranking: 8/10

Although a bit far away, we did see one penguin coming to shore, amazing!

Reviewed over 3 years ago

Ranking: 8/10

The brilliant receptionist at Oamaru holiday park told us exactly when and where to go to view yellow eyed penguins coming ashore, there were not many on that particular evening but we had some good views. Then we drove back into town and had a lovely meal, after which we found our way to the south side of the harbour where with a bit of patience it is possible to have excellent views of little blue penguins coming ashore to roost. There is a paid attraction (expensive!) but you do not need to go to it: the penguins have their own ideas of where they want to come ashore and while you will see more penguins at the paying place, you can have good close sightings if you wait quietly along the harbour. Take a torch but stay at a good distance from the penguins so as not to scare them.

Reviewed almost 5 years ago and experienced in January 2014

Ranking: 8/10

Quiet spot near Oamaru to watch fur seals and penquins (only in the late afternoon)

Reviewed about 5 years ago and experienced in December 2013