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The gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers is the largest mainland gannet colony in the world and home to around 20,000 birds. A half-day tour to Cape Kidnappers is the only way to experience being within just a few feet of these remarkable seabirds.
This three-hour tour includes expert commentary from your guide, offering insight into the farming operations of Cape Kidnappers Station as well as a fascinating introduction to the gannets. You will travel by 4×4, stopping along the way at a spectacular clifftop lookout with panoramic views across Hawke’s Bay to the Māhia Peninsula.
On arrival at the colony, your guide will serve refreshments while you enjoy observing the gannets up close. Easily recognised by their striking black eye markings and pale gold crowns, these impressive birds have a wingspan of up to two metres. You will see both adults and young carrying out their daily routines, including watching them swoop and dive as they return with fish.
The gannet colony can be visited from September through to early May. In September, the birds return to build nests, with chicks hatching during December and January. The chicks are then fed and strengthened in preparation for their first and final departure to warmer climates in late April or early May.
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