After last year’s successful Waddle the Mount event, the community-focused charity walk is returning in 2026 with a new route and a fresh name: the Penguin Parade.
The playful, penguin-themed event on Saturday, March 7 raises funds for the Western Bay Wildlife Trust (WBWT), supporting the region’s precious little blue penguins, known as kororā.
Envirohub Bay of Plenty Sustainable Backyards co-ordinator Te Ara Dirkse said last year’s event was “an awesome new event ... a fun walk to raise money for the little blue penguins that live in Mount Maunganui, with all funds going to Western Bay Wildlife Trust”.
This year, following the tragic landslide at Mauao in January 2026, which claimed six lives and forced the mountain’s closure to the public, the event could not be held on its original course.
“With a lot of work and perseverance, we have moved the event to span across two peaks, Moturiki and Mount Drury,” Dirkse said.
“Our little kororā still need help, even more so perhaps with the closing of Mauao. I think our community are hungry to know how they can help and might love the chance to make a real difference in supporting our taiao [environment] in light of everything that has happened recently.”
Envirohub Bay of Plenty volunteer Donnya Mules, dressed up as "Big Blue", is looking forward to the Penguin Parade at Mount Maunganui. Photo / Kelly O'Hara
WBWT Kororā and shorebird ranger Anna Wentsch said it was not currently possible to assess the condition of the little blue penguins and grey-faced petrels that are nesting on Mauao.
“We are still not allowed on Mauao due to ongoing safety concerns,” Wentsch said.
She said this year’s Penguin Parade will primarily take place on Mount Drury, with a portion of the route crossing over to Moturiki.
Western Bay Wildlife Kororā and shorebird ranger Anna Wentsch (from left), "Big Blue" AKA Envirohub Bay of Plenty volunteer Donnya Mules and Envirohub Bay of Plenty Sustainable Backyards co-ordinator Te Ara Dirkse. Photo / Kelly O'Hara
“We want to minimise the impact on Moturiki, but part of the waddling route will go there. Envirohub are the event organisers, and team members from WBWT will be there, with funds raised going directly to the trust,” Wentsch said.
The day, which runs from 10am-12pm, promises family-friendly activities, games and educational information about local seabirds.
Check-in is at the Envirohub gazebo, Soundshell, 25 Marine Parade, Mount Maunganui. Every ticket and donation supports the rescue, protection and care of local kororā.
The event encourages participants to dress up in penguin costumes or masks, with prizes for best-dressed participants and best waddle.
The route starts at the Soundshell, with a waddle up Mount Drury, then crosses Marine Parade and continues to the far end of Moturiki, with the opportunity to collect stamps at both peaks for an official waddling medal.
Last year’s event was “packed with family fun, costumes and community spirit”, Dirkse said, adding that this year’s parade aims to be even bigger.
The Penguin Parade is happening from 10am-12pm, Saturday March 7. Tickets: Adults – $10 minimum donation; Kids (16 and under) – koha.
To register, visit https://events.humanitix.com/penguin-parade-charity-waddle-2026.