The Fiordland Crested Penguin is a migratory species found in the waters of Antarctica around the Southern Islands. During breeding season, this species can be found along the Fiordland coast and its outlying islands, as well as on Stewart Island. Breeding sites are typically found near dense temperate forests or among the rocks for protection.

The main prey are cephalopods (~85%), mainly Arrow Squid, followed by crustaceans (~13%) such as Krill, and lastly fish (~2%) such as Red Cod and Hoki.

The Fiordland Crested Penguin is listed as a vulnerable species, due to its small population of about 2,500 pairs.