We're one of the birds around the country that spend most of our lives near or around the ocean. This means that we're really vulnerable to threats such as commercial long-line fishing and global warming. Our friends such as kororā (little blue penguin), hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin) and tarāpuka (black-billed gull) are also threatened with local habitat destruction and introduced predators. 

With Bird of the Year, voting for us means a lot. It helps us know that we're supported by New Zealanders who recognise the importance of keeping our oceans and beaches clean and healthy for us to eat and feed our young.

We're partnered up with Southern Seabirds Ltd, Live Ocean and other charities and organisations to put marine conservation at the forefront of New Zealanders' minds.