Hoiho / Yellow-eyed Penguin
A rare native bird. A beautiful silhouette. A real conservation impact.
Say hello to the Hoiho (Yellow-eyed Penguin), a true taonga of Aotearoa and was the Forest and Bird "Bird of the Year" in 2024. Known for its piercing call, golden eye band, and fiercely loyal parenting instincts, the Hoiho is one of the world’s rarest penguins… and now, one of the most striking additions to your backyard.
We have created a cool bundle with the current Bird of the Year winner, the Kārearea, and the 2023 Bird of the Year winner (and Bird of the Century), the Pūteketeke, if you want to keep supporting Forest and Bird's amazing work (and in case you enjoy a little discount!)
Cut from weathering Corten® steel and built to last, this Hoiho is ready to stand tall in your garden, on your deck, or by your front gate. Whether it’s a gift for a wildlife lover or a tribute to a resilient spirit, this penguin makes a bold, meaningful statement.
Our Hoiho is:
✓ Life-sized and full of character – 31 cm high × 15 cm wide (includes stake), approx. 300g
✓ Easy to gift – Ships flat in our standard A4 box (31 × 21 × 1 cm)
✓ Weathering naturally – Made from 3 mm Corten® steel that forms a beautiful patina
✓ Locally made – Proudly cut and crafted in NZ by a family-run workshop
✓ Thoughtful & meaningful – A symbol of strength, endurance, and care
Style With
Hoiho / Yellow-eyed Penguin
AS SEEN IN
Most of our steel bird silhouettes are cut from 3 mm Corten weathering steel. Check the individual product for its material, thickness and manufacturing origin: wooden birds, clothing and other products have their own specifications.
Why does Corten steel change colour?
Outdoors, the steel develops a natural rust patina. Grey gives way to orange and brown tones, with the setting and weather doing their bit. The colour and timing vary. It is unpainted steel, so a permanent black finish is not part of the deal.
Where should I put it?
Choose a spot with good drainage. Rusty runoff can mark pale paving, pots and walls, particularly while the steel is weathering. Follow the mounting instructions for your particular bird or feeder.
See how patina develops · Find your bird · Installation and care help
The Patina Process:
That first flash of orange? Your steel bird is settling in. Corten weathering steel develops a natural rust patina, changing through orange and brown tones as it spends time outdoors.
How long does patina take?
There is no fixed timetable or guaranteed final colour. Rain, humidity, airflow and the position you choose all affect how the surface changes.
Will it stain nearby surfaces?
Rusty runoff can mark paving, pots and walls, especially during early weathering. Leave room around pale surfaces and choose a location where water can drain freely.
Is my bird painted black?
Corten birds are unpainted steel. Their finish changes naturally; they are not intended to stay permanently black. Check your product page for the exact material and care instructions.
Read about the material · Browse the birds · Ask us about care
what’s the word on the bird?
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