Megadyptes antipodes is an endangered species. A 1992 estimate concluded that 5,930-6,970 individuals lived in New Zealand. However, not all of these birds were breeders. Drops in numbers of M. antipodes are attributed to destruction of habitat, fires, grazing, predation, and food shortages. Humans and livestock also disturb this penguin. Predators on M. antipodes include wild cats, ferrets, stoats and dogs.

Many efforts are being made to save M. antipodes. The Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust has set out to protect the animals' habitat, create reserves, fence in breeding areas and control predators. The New Zealand Department of Conservation in conjunction with the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society has also set out to help the Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust. This species is protected under law by the Wildlife Act of 1953. However the habitat of this bird is not

(Vernon 1991; Stonehouse 1997; Houston 1998; Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust 1998).

US Federal List: no special status

CITES: no special status

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: endangered