Penguin Parade Charity Waddle

The Penguin Parade is back! 🐧

Formerly known as Waddle the Mount, our much-loved charity waddle returns! Just down the road with a fresh new route and the same fun community vibe.

Join us for a playful penguin-themed walk (or run, or waddle!) across two local peaks while raising vital funds for our local kororā / little blue penguins, cared for by the Western Bay Wildlife Trust.

📍 The Waddle Route

Start at the Soundshell beside Mount Drury / Hopukiore in Mount Maunganui.

From there you’ll:

• Waddle up to the top of Mt Drury

• Head back down and cross the road

• Continue over to the far end of Moturiki Island

Collect a stamp at both peaks to earn your official waddling medal! 🏅

Important: Mt Drury is quite steep and may be challenging for some participants. You are absolutely welcome to join the fun even if you choose not to complete the full course.

Last year’s event was packed with laughter, costumes, and community spirit and this year we’re aiming even bigger. Bring your friends, whānau, colleagues, or team and help protect our precious local penguins.

📅 Event Details

When: Saturday 7 March, 10am - 12pm
Where: Check-in at the Envirohub gazebo, Soundshell (25 Marine Parade, Mount Maungaui)

Tickets:

• Adults — $10 minimum donation

• Kids (16 and under) — Koha

🐧 Dress Up!

Penguin costumes are highly encouraged!
Prizes for:

• Best Dressed

• Best Waddle

• And more surprises

🌿 What’s Happening on the Day

• Fun, family-friendly activities and games

• Information about local shorebirds and seabirds from WBWT

• Spot prizes and great community vibes

Perfect for families, schools, workplaces, and anyone keen to do some good while having fun.

Every ticket and donation goes directly to the Western Bay Wildlife Trust to support the rescue, protection, and care of our local kororā.

👉 Register now and join the parade!

Accessibility - We want everyone to feel welcome at our events, if you have any physical, sensory, or other accessibility needs, please make contact ahead of time so we can support you.
Photography - Please note that photographs and videos may be taken at our events and used on our social media and website. If you or your children do not wish to be photographed, just let a staff member or volunteer know when you arrive.
Transport - To minimise environmental impact, we encourage walking, biking, carpooling, or using public transport to attend. Please remember parking can be difficult to find in this area, so come early.
Sustainable Backyards - This event is part of the 2026 Sustainable Backyards series. Check out our other event listings here or follow us on Facebook.