Intrepid Travel is proudly throwing its support behind the Eastern Rockhopper Penguin (Tawaki piki toka) – in Forest & Bird’s beloved Bird of the Year (BOTY) campaign, running from 15–28 September.
Through its not-for-profit arm, The Intrepid Foundation (TIF), Intrepid is championing the Rockhopper to raise awareness of Aotearoa’s unique wildlife and drive donations for conservation efforts. Every vote for the Rockhopper will be matched up to NZ$5,000 by The Intrepid Foundation, with funds going directly to Forest & Bird.
The campaign features a bespoke crocheted penguin named Rocky, crafted in Queenstown and now embarking on a nationwide tour from North to South Island. Rocky will join Intrepid trips, meet travellers and suppliers and share his adventures across social media bringing conservation to life in a joyful, visual way.
Simon McKearney, Intrepid Travel’s New Zealand Country General Manager said: “Bird of the Year is a national treasure.It’s cheeky, competitive and deeply meaningful campaign that sparks international conversation on conservation. We’re thrilled to support our Kiwi TIF partner Forest & Bird and spotlight the Eastern Rockhopper Penguin that is facing the risk of extinction. Rocky’s journey is a fun way to connect our travellers, staff and partners with the real impact of conservation and we’re calling on the entire travel industry to get behind him.”
The Eastern Rockhopper Penguin resides in New Zealand’s subantarctic islands and faces threats from climate change and habitat degradation. Forest & Bird’s BOTY campaign has become a cultural phenomenon, sparking national conversation and even attracting international attention, including a viral moment in 2023 when comedian John Oliver backed the Pūteketeke.
Biheng Zhang, The Intrepid Foundation General Manager said: “This campaign is about more than just votes – it’s about visibility, education and action. By supporting Forest & Bird, we’re helping protect New Zealand’s biodiversity and showing how travel can be a force for good. Rocky is a symbol of that mission and we hope he inspires thousands to vote, donate and get involved.”
