Another All Black is to champion the cause of the endangered yellow-eyed penguin.
Following in the footsteps of former All Black Anton Oliver, Crusader and New Zealand player of the year Kieran Read has become an ambassador of the Dunedin-based Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust.
The Cantabrian admits to a soft-spot for the penguins.
"These penguins are tough, determined little characters, climbing over sand dunes and into the hills to nest and feed their young.
"I'm really pleased to be able to help save the yellow-eyed penguin so that our next generation and visitors to our country can enjoy viewing this iconic species."
Oliver, who has been patron of the trust since 2006, said Read would be a huge asset to the trust and "get us a lot more coverage and visibility of the issues facing our little penguins".
Trust general manager Sue Murray said she was looking forward to working with Read, as the organisation was reliant on the goodwill of national and international supporters, volunteers, local and central government and businesses.
"We still need ongoing support to ensure that yellow-eyed penguins have safe, high quality habitats in which to breed and prosper."
