NIWA says Happy Feet is thriving aboard the RV Tangaroa, despite rough sea conditions south of New Zealand.
The emperor penguin is on his feet in a specially-made crate, swaying with the motion of the National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research vessel as it heads south.
A special hydroslide has been made for the penguin to get down the stern ramp when he is released.
The Tangaroa is expected arrive at the release point, approximately 51 degrees south in sub-Antarctic waters, on Friday or Saturday.
The penguin was found on Peka Peka Beach on the Kapiti Coast north of Wellington on 20 June.
