Fiordland Crested Penguin

Eudyptes pachyrhynchus, the tawaki, is an endemic crested penguin breeding along the southwest South Island. It differs from Snares crested penguin through its mainland forest habitat and white cheek markings that are usually less extensive. Adults are black and white with thick yellow eyebrow crests and a heavy orange bill. Pale cheek stripes may appear below the eye.

It breeds from South Westland through Fiordland and on Stewart Island/Rakiura. Nests are hidden in rainforest, caves and beneath coastal boulders. It dives for fish, squid and krill, spending months at sea outside breeding. Adults come ashore through surf and travel under forest cover.

The New Zealand classification is Declining. Monro Beach near Lake Moeraki offers seasonal viewing; remain behind barriers and avoid landing routes.