Kororā / Little Penguin

Regular price $69.99 Sale price $69.99

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Description

Just a bit taller than a rugby ball, the Kororā (Little Penguin) is the smallest (and arguably cutest) penguin species in the world. These compact ocean dynamos spend all day catching fish, then march up to 1.5 km inland under the cover of darkness to reach their hungry chicks. That’s dedication.

Our sculpture celebrates the grit, charm, and quirky resilience of this endangered native seabird, while raising awareness of the pressures they face—especially from human encroachment and predators. A meaningful gift for ocean lovers, coastal dwellers, or anyone who appreciates Aotearoa’s native wildlife.

✓ Charming and compact – 31cm high × 20cm wide, approx. 300g
✓ Locally crafted in NZ – made in a family-run workshop
✓ Built for the outdoors – 3mm Corten® steel develops a weathered patina over time
✓ Quick to ship – same-day dispatch on weekday orders before 2pm
✓ Gift-ready packaging – comes flat-packed in a standard A4 box (31cm x 21cm x 1cm)
✓ Flexible install – can be placed in lawns, pots, garden beds or fence posts

You don’t need to waddle far to get this penguin set up.

1. Hold the Kororā at a downward angle
2. Tap gently using a hammer at the centre of the silhouette between the feet
3. Install into grass, soil, or a wooden surface—Kororā love a solid perch
4. For hard posts, pre-drill if needed for an easier fit
5. Stand back and enjoy—your garden just got 100% cuter

Top Tip: If installing into a flower pot or compact soil, make sure the penguin is facing outward and slightly tilted forward—it helps show off those iconic flippers and tail.

Is this based on the real Little Penguin?
Yes! The Kororā is the smallest penguin in the world and native to New Zealand. This sculpture captures its charm and proportions beautifully.

What’s the best location to install it?
We recommend garden beds, posts, or pots—anywhere visible. Just make sure it’s facing a spot where it can be admired.

Can it stay outside all year?
Absolutely. It’s crafted from weathering Corten® steel, which forms a protective patina designed to withstand the elements.

Is the product easy to install?
Very. All you need is a hammer and a bit of firm ground. Tap it in at a downward angle—no screws or brackets needed.

Why is this penguin important to New Zealand?
Kororā are coastal birds that nest under homes, in dunes, and sometimes in stormwater pipes. Their survival depends on awareness and habitat care.

Style With

AS SEEN IN

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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

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