Largest Gannet Colony in the World at Cape Kidnappers

Hawke’s Bay, on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is not only famous for it’s fantastic art and wine scene, but is also home to the largest accessible mainland gannet colony! Get ready for an unforgettable journey with Gannet Safaris Overland, that will take you from coast to cape, where you will come face to face with this incredible colony of captivating birds in a thriving natural environment.

One of the largest seabirds in the world, gannets are masters of the ocean, performing dramatic dives from high in the sky deep into the sea to catch their prey. In this unique wildlife encounter, you’ll be taken on a 4WD discovery tour to Cape Kidnappers, where you’ll admire the massive colony of over 20,000 gannets in their natural habitat, dancing and diving into the depths of the Pacific.

You’ll be driven through the pristine Hawkes Bay coastline, getting incredible views of Mahia Peninsula and Mount Ruapehu and panoramic views of the Pacific ocean. Along the way, your guides with over 50 years of experience will share fascinating stories of the local Maori culture and legends, and everything you’ll need to know about the gannet colony. Get a more dramatic view with the sunrise tour, where you’ll see the magnificent colony as the sun rises over the plateau (and you’ll be treated to a luxury breakfast at their lodge!)

This unique wildlife encounter is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and cannot be missed on any trip to New Zealand!

• Tours run 9.30am and 1.30pm daily, from 1st September to 30th April.
• Tours last around 3 hours.
• Standard tours:
  Adult NZ$88.00
  Child 5 -18yrs NZ$44.00
• Sunrise tours:
  NZ$845 from up to 4 people
• Check their page on Hawkes Bay to see other things to do in the area.