Join us for a tawaki weekend!
We’re hosting a special two-night voyage into Patea / Doubtful Sound at the height of tawaki (Fiordland penguin) season – a rare chance to experience one of Aotearoa’s wildest fiords and meet one of its most charismatic (and elusive) birds. The trip runs Friday, 31 Oct – Sunday, 2 Nov.
On board, you’ll settle into either an ensuite double cabin (NZ$3,000 per couple) or a shared-bathroom double cabin (NZ$2,500 per couple). A chef will keep us well fed with a set menu – and yes, we’ll even lift lobster pots during the trip.
Getting there is part of the adventure: we’ll ferry to West Arm, then coach over the spectacular Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove to board our vessel. Once underway, expect penguin talks, sea kayaking, and great chances to encounter other marine wildlife as we explore the fiord’s quiet arms and waterfalls. (As always in Fiordland, the exact plan is weather-dependent so we can keep everyone safe and make the most of conditions.)
Why tawaki?
Tawaki – the Fiordland penguin – are endemic to New Zealand and breed in coastal rain forests and rocky shores of South Westland and Fiordland. They’re famously shy, nesting in dense vegetation and rock crevices, and wear the unmistakable golden “eyebrow” crest that gives crested penguins their name. Late spring is a prime time to observe adults commuting to and from nest sites while remaining respectful of their space. Our team will share the latest insights from ongoing research and practical guidelines for low-impact viewing.
If you’d like to join us (or have questions), email Andrea to book: andrea.faris@tawaki-project.org