Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony Tours

Gannet Colony Tours Cape Kidnappers, Napier

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris Overland tours takes you into the largest accessible mainland gannet nesting colony in the world. There are some 20,000 birds at Cape Kidnappers during the Gannets breeding season, offering one of New Zealand’s most fascinating wildlife sites to view these Gannets at close quarters.

The birds can be seen from September to April. In September they return and build their nests ready for the arrival of the chicks during December and January. The chicks are then fattened up ready for their first and departing flight in March/April when they migrate to warmer climates.

Gannet Safaris Overland offers three tour options for discovering the wonders of Cape Kidnappers gannet colony in Hawke’s Bay. Every tour provides a unique and ever changing experience & scenery which we know you’ll enjoy. During your tour there will be many fabulous photo opportunities which will leave you with fond memories that we hope you will share with your family and friends.

Your travel to the gannet colony is in comfort and air conditioned 4WD vehicles through Cape Kidnappers Station; traversing riverbeds, broad rolling pastures, through stands of native bush, steep gullies and breathtaking inclines. There is a stop on the way at a spectacular cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke Bay right across to the Mahia Peninsula. The amazing geology of the area can also be taken in. The 36km, three-hour trip includes a commentary by your tour guide / driver on the farming operation on Cape Kidnappers Station, the wildlife sanctuary and an introduction to the gannets.

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari Tour Options:

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari’s – Daily Tours

Price: Adults $88 per person
Departure Times: Daily 09:30 am & 1:30 pm (Except Christmas Day)
Gannet Season: between 1st September and 30th April
Tour Duration: Three Hours approx.

Gannet Safaris has been guiding visitors over Cape Kidnappers for over 50 years. It’s the only tour which drives you to within metres of the remarkable gannets – no walking required – Ride in style and comfort over picturesque Cape Kidnappers Station in air-conditioned 4 x 4 vehicles – traversing riverbeds, broad rolling pastures, through stands of native bush, steep gullies and breathtaking views. There is a stop on the way at a spectacular cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke Bay right across to the Mahia Peninsula. The amazing geology of the area can also be taken in. The 36km, three hour trip includes commentary by yourtour guide on the farming operation of Cape Kidnappers Station and an introduction to the gannets.

Included is a coffee or tea at the colony

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari’s – Private Range Rover Tours

Price: Private small group $732 suitable upto 4 persons
Departure Times: By booking arrangement
Gannet Season: between 1st September and 30th April
Tour Duration: Three Hours approx.

Have you own personal encounter with the birds anytime from sunrise to sunset – A maximum of 4 people and 3 hours duration.

Your tour takes you overland to the largest accessible gannet colony in the world through Cape Kidnappers Station which is approximately 2,500 hectares and has a fascinating history. Inaddition to sheep and beef farming, the station today has a 200 hectare native bush conservatory hosting introduced Kiwi and Tuatara with a predator proof fence running from coast to coast. There is a luxury lodge with a privately owned world class golf course.

Stop on top of the cliff tops and look down at the remarkable geology of the cliffs and sweeping views across Hawkes Bay.When at the colony, you’ll be memorised by the specular birds with their eye markings and golden crowns. Be within just a few feet of adults and chicks nesting, preening themselves and performing their courtship dance.

Included is a coffee or tea at the colony

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari’s – Mini-Van Group Tours

Price: Private Group $837 for upto 10 persons
Departure Times: By booking arrangement
Gannet Season: between 1st September and 30th April
Tour Duration: Three Hours approx.

Have your own small group tour to see the birds anytime from sunrise to sunset – A maximum of 10 people and 3 hours duration (can be extended if desired)

Your tour takes you overland to the largest accessible gannet colony in the world through Cape Kidnappers Station which is approximately 2,500 hectares and has a fascinating history. In addition to sheep and beef farming, the station today has a 200 hectare native bush conservatory hosting introduced Kiwi and Tuatara with a predator proof fence running from coast to coast. There is a luxury lodge with a privately owned world class golf course.

Stop on top of the cliff tops and look down at the remarkable geology of the cliffs and sweeping views across Hawkes Bay.

When at the colony, you’ll be memorised by the specular birds with their eye markings and golden crowns. Be within just a few feet of adults and chicks nesting, preening themselves and performing their courtship dance.

Included is a coffee or tea at the colony

On Each Tour:

Be accompanied by an experienced driver/guide who will provide a knowledgeable and insightful commentary throughout the tour
Travel in air conditioned 4×4 comfort
Experience some breathtaking scenery
Visit a production forest
View a predator proof reserve
Visit a New Zealand native forest
View significant geological landscapes
Visit a working farm of over 5000 acres
View Cape Kidnappers’ International Golf Course
Learn about local Maori legend
And discover the largest mainland gannet colony in the world from your position at the brink of the cliffs edge – 100 metres above the ocean, whilst being served light refreshments as you enjoy watching the gannets perform around you.