cape kidnappers safari

A Unique Wildlife Encounter

Captivating champion divers and masters of the sea, Gannets are true acrobats. Brace yourself for a journey that takes you from coast to cape, to the world’s largest and most accessible Gannet colony in the beautiful Hawke’s Bay. Discover the mesmerising birds in an almost face to face experience and take in the stunning vista of the area.

Let’s take you on a Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari

Regular Tours Sunrise Tours Private Tours Cruise Ship Tours

For over 50 years, Cape Kidnapper’s Gannet Safaris has been the only tour to take you overland, bringing you close and personal with the fierce seabirds and their thriving environment for nesting and breeding. Starting off at our Te Awanga base, our fleet of 4×4 vehicles will take you through pristine coastline, working farm, native bush to New Zealand’s largest, privately-owned nature reserve. The guided safari will take you on a stunning discovery tour to the top of Cape Kidnappers’ Gannet Colony where you will come to encounter over 20,000 gannets. Watch the seabirds in their natural habitat – nesting, preening, dancing swooping and diving into the sea right before your eyes. With the vast Pacific Ocean in sight, beneath the land of the long white clouds, and surrounded by beautiful, winged wonders; discover the land, sea and sky of Aotearoa with Gannet Safaris Overland Safari.

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Explore our amazing backyard

The Gannets

Conservation

“As many people have commented here, this excursion is much more than just "going to see some birds". Not only do you have fantastic scenery you get to learn so much communicated in an entertaining way. Tony our guide is responsible for this and his knowledge breath is remarkable. You'll learn about the conservation effort being carried out there, local farming, lost golf balls and everything else in-between, too much to mention here. Highly recommended if you are in the area.”

Trip Advisor - December 2022

“ Fabulous tour, such fun, very inclusive, enjoyed opening gates. Guide was amazing and super knowledgeable. Real value for money - couldn't recommend it more highly! ”

“Fantastic! Great info given out. Spectacular scenery, amazing gannets. This was the highlight of my holiday. I will recommend to others.”

Trip Advisor - September 2022

“We loved every minute of the tour. Wayne was so experienced with non stop information that made the trip really interesting. The gannets were amazing - the flying, nesting, feeding. A really great 3 hours from start to finish”

“Fantastic tour with lots of interesting information along the way from our lovely guide. This has been the highlight of our NZ trip so far. Great scenery and superb weather definitely helped. But the gannet behaviour in their natural environment was great to watch, without feeling that we were impacting on their habitat.”

Trip Advisor - October 2022

“Great 1/2 day experience to visit Cape Kidnappers and the gannet colonies there. Informative commentary about the private property that owns the land, as well as landscape fauna & flora. 2 stops (1 includes cup of tea/coffee and a bikkie) including 45min spent watching the gannet colony. Comfortable clean air-conditioned mini-bus. Spectacular scenery, so bring your camera!”

Trip Advisor - November 2022

“We took this tour as part of a Holland America cruise ship visit, and it was my favourite tour in New Zealand. I'm not a "birder" at all, but I like tours that get you out to see the countryside. Our driver and guide was very good. He gave us history of the area, of the nature preserve and of the various iterations of the property around the cape.”

“ Highlight of our Hawkes Bay stay. Friendly and knowledgable hosts/ drivers. History and conservation aspect of the area super interesting. Element of adventure... plus the gannets! Time and money well spent. Highly recommend. ”

Get Your Guide - September 2022

“The visit was perfect, the guide excellent, thank you so much. You must do if you are in Napier.”

“Fascinating trip to the gannets, made very special by the knowledge of our tour host Graham. A great afternoon out. great views, local knowledge and wonderful births of chicks!”

“The best 3 hours I spent in New Zealand and the most instructive. A fabulous photography experience and the rather precarious journey there and back was made enjoyable by the commentary of the guide who was amusing and extremely knowledgable. Highly recommended.”

Get Your Guide - November 2022

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Happy Mother`s Day to all wonderful mothers out there! #gannets #gannet #takapu #capekidnappers #hbnz #gannetsafaris

Whilst bookings for gannet colony tours have closed for the season, the incredible Cape Sanctuary Tour is still operating! Book now via website in bio. Venture across the formidable landscape of the Ocean Beach Wilderness Area, the heart of New Zealand’s largest privately owned and operated wildlife sanctuary. Our guides will take you through a journey of past and present, from pre-historic times, early occupation, barren hillsides to luscious coastal forest. Experience the impact of Cape Sanctuary’s conservation efforts in real-time through up-close encounters with takahe and kakariki. Travel high above the Ocean Beach Cliffs, and greet the all-encompassing view of our coastline as you enter our pest-free slice of paradise, the ‘sea bird site’. Learn about Cape Sanctuary’s nationally significant sand-dune restoration, coastal revegetation, species translocations and leading sea-bird restoration projects with a well-deserved drink on the panoramic verandah of our newly built hut. Experience one of Hawke’s Bay’s best kept secrets in this three hour journey! #hbnz #capekidnappers #gannets #gannetsafaris #hbnz #tourism #hbtousiusm #newzealand #thingstodo #ecotourism #capesanctuary #capekidnappers #oceanbeachnz

Gannets aren`t the only animal in the spotlight on the Gannet Safari Overland Adventure! Over the past decades, the New Zealand fur seal/ kekeno population has made a comeback to the Cape Kidnappers peninsula. These gorgeous sea-dogs often steal a bit of attention away from the takapū, but whose complaining!? #seal #kekeno #newzealand #NZ #lovenz #mammals #marinelife #marine #ocean #hbnz #hbtourism #gannetsafaris

Five Facts about Gannets!

Chicks cooling down in the sun ☀️ #capekidnappers #gannets #gannet #takapu #gannetsafarisoverland #gannetsafari

With no prior farming experience yet eager for a change in lifestyle James Gillespie Gordon started his purchase of Clifton station. While the steep and drought prone hillsides provided many challenges, Gordon`s perseverance and assistance from local shepherds resulted in great expansion! By 1876 there were ~16,000 sheep on Clifton, becoming a profitable and iconic New Zealand working farm. Learn more about the history of Cape Kidnappers Station on your journey New Zealand`s largest and most accessible gannet colony! #nz #nzfarming #farmingnz #farmersnz #cliftonstation #cliftonnz #capekidnappers #farminglife #sheepfarm #hbnz #gannetsafaris #gannets

#TAG your next gannet safari`s adventure pal! #gannetsafaris #gannetsafrisoverland #gannets #takapu #hastingsnz #nz #newzealand #nzbirds #hbnz

Swipe to learn about the geology of Cape Kidnappers! Our overland journey always stops at a spectacular spot high about the formidable Cape Kidnappers Coastline. From here you can observe the nationally famous geology of the coastal cliffs as they extend out beneath you! #geology #nz #newzealand #hbnz #tourismhb #hawkesbaynz #hastingsnz #havelocknorthnz #gannets #gannet #takapu #conservation #rocks #coastline #coastal #mustdonz

The morning bird catches ... the best bird pics?! Did you know that Gannet Safari`s offers a sunrise tour? Be mesmerised by the shifting hues moving across the formidable landscape of Cape Kidnappers. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast within feet of New Zealand`s largest accessible mainland gannet/ takapū colony. This experience is a must do for all bird, landscape and photography enthusiasts! #sunrise #gannet #takapu #landscape #capekidnappers #nzbirds #nz #lovenz #hbnz #hbtourism #newzealand #tourism #travelnz #mustdonz #nzbirds #hastingsnz #hawkesbaynz #napiernz

Fancy a gannet pie? 🥧 In 1789 a hungry Captain James Cook documented his kiwi take on the classic Christmas `goose pie` reporting that "our goose pye was eat with great approbation" by the crew. Well before the invention of Gannet pie, young takapū were an important part of Māori diet. Nowadays, like most of our native birds gannets enjoy full protection. Whilst gannet pie is certainly off the menu, visiting these cutie pies isn`t - with only a few more days of tours available be sure to get your ticket ASAP! #gannets #takapu #seabirds #newzealand #hawkesbay #hbnz #hawkesbaynz #hastingsnz #capekidnappers #nzbirds #lovebirds #birds #birdphotography #nzexperience #lovenz #napiernz #havelocknorthnz #seabird #conservation

• About Trudy

Live & Travel Well for a Healing Journey...

Amazing cape kidnappers gannet safari adventure.

The Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari is an adventure amidst some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery.  Its majestic headland and seascape are breathtaking on the teal waters of Hawke’s Bay.  Plus, it’s also home to the world’s largest accessible Gannet Colony.  So, read on to discover why this is a fascinating place to visit, bird lover or not. 

Cape Kidnappers and Gannet Colony Background

This amazing cape is a headland on Hawke’s Bay, just 20 km (12 m) southeast of Napier. Day tours take you out here from Clifton or Napier.   Also, the headland was named after an attempt by a local Maori to kidnap a member of Captain Cook’s crew back in the 18th century.  However, by gunfire and cannon, they were able to rescue the crewmember back.  However, the cape’s name commemorates it still today.  The cliffs and beaches around Cape Kidnappers are gorgeous with endlessly breathtaking views.

Cape Kidnappers and the sea cliffs are also home to the world’s largest accessible Gannet Colony .  This is the breeding site for 3,000 pairs of Australasian Gannets.  Tours are available from September to April.  This large seabird is of the booby and gannet family, Sulidae.  Furthermore, they are beautiful birds, with colors mostly white, with black wingtips, yellow heads, blue-grey bill and blue-rimmed eyes.  The mates lay 1 pale blue egg a year.

Starting Point in Napier “Art Deco Capital of the World”

As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I asked one of the ship’s Shore Excursion Consultants.  What is the best thing to see at Napier?  I remember here adamantly saying, “Don’t miss Cape Kidnappers and the Gannet Colony.”  So glad that I took her advice and had one of the best days of my life here.

Truly stunning and awesome, this is a safari for both scenery and wildlife.  I started my tour from Napier.  Napier is a unique coastal city, known as the Art Deco Capital of the World and beautiful beaches.  Furthermore, after the 1931 earthquake, the city was rebuilt in Art Deco, leaving behind an idyllic remnant of the era.  It’s also a big tourist hub and port-of call for cruise ships.  This is where my journey began on the Cape Kidnapper’s Gannet Safari.

My Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari

The drive there was picturesque, taking scenic stops along the dramatic cliffside settings.  Furthermore, the pale-colored rocks of the sea cliffs alongside the New Zealand teal waters makes for majestic photos and scenery.   The Gannet Colony sits on a large clifftop, overlooking Cape Kidnappers and Hawke’s Bay.  Moreover, in the safari, we were able to walk right on the clifftop among the gannets.  They seem to be used to people and carry on as though we were not even there. 

I was absolutely mesmerized among these thousands of beautiful birds all around me.  Some were nestled on the rocks with their mates and others hovering over the rocks in flight.  Overall, this is the closest I have ever experienced to being a bird.  I had to remind myself, that I do not have wings in the lofty, windy precipice.  I found it also interesting that the rock colors blended with these birds, almost camouflaging them. 

Cape Kidnapper’s Gannet Colony is worth a pilgrimage across the world if you are a bird lover.  This adventure is the essence of New Zealand’s unique landscapes, sea and wildlife.  Also, I am not exaggerating to say that this is one of the best travel experiences of my life. So, I can highly recommend this adventure for anyone, bird lover or not.

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• Live, Work & do Business in Hawke's Bay

Gannet Safaris Overland

396 Clifton Road

Cape Kidnappers is the largest most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. The 20,000 gannets at the Cape are members of the Booby family, with distinctive black eye markings and a pale gold crown. Gannet Safaris has been guiding visitors over Cape Kidnappers for in excess of 50 years. It is the only tour which drives you to within metres of the remarkable gannets – no walking is 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 - all with breath-taking views. There is an en route stop 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 your tour guide on the farming operation of Cape Kidnappers Station and forest, the bird sanctuary, and an introduction to the gannets. Season: 1st September - 30th April

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Our season is from 1 st September until 31st April,

Tours are every day 9.30am and 1.30pm including Christmas day.

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• Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris Tour

Pricing From $96

For more than 50 years, Gannet Safaris has been leading tours to Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand that puts visitors to within metres of the fascinating gannets with no walking necessary. Air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles transport visitors over the stunning Cape Kidnappers Station in comfort and style, taking them on a journey that winds through vast swaths of rolling pastures, riverbeds, steep gullies, patches of native bush and amazing scenery. On the way, stop at a breathtaking cliff top with marvellous sweeping views of Hawke’s Bay right across to the Mahia Peninsula. Here you can also admire the area’s incredible geology. The 36km Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris Tour takes three hours from Napier in New Zealand and includes an informative introduction to the gannets and commentary on Cape Kidnappers Station’s farming operation by your tour guide.

The tours operate daily at 9.30AM and 1.30PM from September 1 through to April 30 (except Christmas Day).

Start: Te Awanga

Finish: Te Awanga

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Gannet Safaris Overland

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Gannet Safaris Overland tour to Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony

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Gannet Safaris Overland - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Gannet Safaris Overland, Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay

A unique hawke’s bay wildlife encounter.

Drive along the scenic coast from Napier to Te Awanga and join Gannet Safaris Overland to visit the worlds largest, most accessible gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers, New Zealand

Gannet Safaris Overland has been providing gannet safari tours, guiding visitors over Cape Kidnappers for over 50 years.

Our safaris are the only way to be driven right to within a few feet of these remarkable birds. There is absolutely no walking required.

Our Gannet Safari Tours cater for individuals, small or large groups. The seating capacity is 100 at any time. Private exclusive tours are also available.

Get Up Close with Gannet Safaris Tours

An adventure in itself, you will safari over to the picturesque Cape Kidnappers Station over traversing riverbeds, broad rolling pastures, steep gullies, and the most breathtaking 360 degree views of Hawke’s Bay and beyond.

With no walking required, you will reach New Zealand’s largest privately-owned nature reserve – an untouched paradise for wildlife. Gannets, and other rare bird species have a secure space to live freely and to roam through the reserve.

Choose between 4 of our regular tours or book a school tour to discover the natural beauty of Cape Kidnappers and the habitat of the Gannets.

Open from 1st September – 30th April, Including Christmas Day!

You are welcome to join our daily tours which run twice a day, at 9.30 am and 1.30 pm.

You will travel in comfort in our air conditioned 4 x 4 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’s 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, local Maori legend and an introduction to the gannets.

On arrival at the gannets you can stretch your legs if you like and take in the spectacular scenery 100 metres above the Pacific Ocean.  Here your driver / guide will serve you light refreshments whilst you enjoy watching the gannets perform around you.

Private Tours Hawke’s Bay

Experience a Gannet Safari Overland Tour catered to your own wishes and needs. Book a private tour and create personalised, lifelong memories. Available for individuals and groups, discover the natural wonders and wildlife of Cape Kidnappers in beautiful Hawke’s Bay anytime from sunrise to sunset.

We will work together with you to create an itinerary that helps you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience into the heart of the largest most accessible Gannet colony in the world.

We will also provide morning/afternoon tea or breakfast, depending on the time of your tour.

Hawke’s Bay Sunrise Tours

The East Cape and Hawke’s Bay Coast are the first places in the world to see the sun rise out of the ocean. Join us on our private sunrise tour and have your own personal encounter with the magnificent gannets. With the sun rising over the plateau – you will feel a new kind of connection to the nature and beauty of our country.

When you reach the colony, you’ll be mesmerised by the spectacular birds with their distinctive eye markings and golden crowns. Be within just a few feet of adults and chicks, nesting and preening themselves as well as performing their courtship dance.

Enjoy a gourmet breakfast of croissants, ham & cheese, pastries, muesli, yogurt, fresh fruit, plunger coffee and fresh juice while overlooking the incredible vista.

Cruise Ship Tours from Napier

We also offer a regular tour with transfers from Napier for cruise ship passengers.

This tour can only be booked directly though our website and is not available via any 3rd party online platform.

Tours are 4 hours return from Napier.

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• 396 Clifton Road Te Awanga Hawke's Bay 4180 New Zealand

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Regular Tour to Cape Kidnappers

• Duration: 3 Hours (approx.)
• Location : Te Awanga, Hawkes Bay
• Product code: GSO1

Our tour to  Cape Kidnappers is simply the best and only tour to Cape Kidnappers gannet colony.  We go over the private farm of Cape Kidnappers Station with stunning views.

This Regular tour is a 36km round trip and is 3 hours from base - little or no walking required.  We stop several times and hop out of the vehicle.

Morning and afternoon tea is provided on all tours.

Tours are every day (including Christmas Day) at 9.30am & 1.30pm between 1st September and 30th April

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to tour departure to check in.

Important note re online  payment bookings:

‘if you have the 3D secure feature activated on your credit card you may have difficulties if you can’t receive your security code - If this happens please contact us’

Cancellation Policy We reserve the right to cancel for events beyond our control & if minimum numbers are not meet for a tour to operate. A full refund will be given less fees.  

Should you cancel within 48 hours of tour, no refund is given. Cancelling outside of 48 hours of tour is eligible for a 100% refund less booking and credit card fees. 

Should we cancel 100% of payment made will be refunded less fees.

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Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony Tours

Cape kidnappers gannet colony tours hawkes bay.

Discover the World’s Largest Mainland Gannet Colony with Cape Kidnappers Safaris Overland Tours

An Unforgettable Wildlife Experience in Hawke’s Bay

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony Safaris Overland tours offer a unique opportunity to witness the stunning world of the largest accessible mainland gannet nesting colony. From September to April, there are up to 20,000 gannets at Cape Kidnappers, making it one of New Zealand’s most fascinating wildlife sites.

Tour the Gannet Colony in Style

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience, look no further than Gannet Safaris Overland. We offer three tour options for discovering the wonders of the Cape Kidnappers gannet colony in Hawke’s Bay. 

Furthermore, every tour provides a unique and ever-changing experience, with plenty of photo opportunities to capture the memories.

Additionally, the tours are conducted in comfort and air-conditioned 4WD vehicles, taking you through the stunning landscapes of Cape Kidnappers Station, including riverbeds, rolling pastures, native bush, steep gullies, and breathtaking inclines.

Learn and Explore

As you travel to the gannet colony, your tour guide/driver will provide a commentary on the farming operation of Cape Kidnappers Station, the wildlife sanctuary, and introduce you to the gannets. 

Moreover, the 36km, three-hour trip includes a stop at a cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke Bay, offering a chance to appreciate the area’s unique geology.

Join us on an unforgettable journey into the fascinating world of gannets. We promise you and your family and friends will cherish the memories forever.

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari Tour Options:

Cape kidnappers gannet safari’s – daily tours .

Discovering the Wonders of Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony

For over 50 years, Gannet Safaris has been offering daily tours to explore the world’s largest accessible gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers. 

This tour stands apart from others as it is the only one that takes you to within metres of the gannets without the need for walking.

Traveling in Style and Comfort

As you venture over the picturesque Cape Kidnappers Station in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles, you will traverse riverbeds, rolling pastures, stands of native bush, steep gullies, and breathtaking views. 

This 36 km, three-hour trip includes a commentary by your tour guide, who will introduce you to the gannets and the farming operation of Cape Kidnappers Station. 

Moreover, during the tour, you will make a stop at a cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay, where you can appreciate the area’s unique geology.

Relax and Refuel

At the end of your tour, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at the colony, making your experience a memorable one. So, have an encounter with the birds anytime from sunrise to sunset and be a part of the fascinating world of Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony.

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari’s – Regular Tour & Transfers 

Our tour, which departs from one of the three i-Site centres in Hawkes Bay (Napier, Hastings, or Havelock North) at either 8:45 am or 12:45 pm, offers a comfortable and stylish experience with air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles that traverse through the stunning landscape of Cape Kidnappers Station.

What sets this tour apart from others is that it’s the only one with access through the wildlife sanctuary to the gannet colony and it drives you within metres of the remarkable birds, eliminating the need for any walking. Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide commentary on the geology and history of Cape Kidnappers, as well as an introduction to the gannets.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy several stops, including a breathtaking cliff-top lookout with panoramic views of Hawkes Bay. With over 50 years of experience in guiding visitors to the colony, Gannet Safaris promises a unique and unforgettable experience. And to top it off, a coffee or tea break at the colony is included.

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari’s – Private Range Rover Tours 

Your private Tour:

An Unforgettable Experience with the Birds at Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony

Have you ever wanted to encounter birds up close and personal? Well, at Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony, you can have this amazing experience anytime from sunrise to sunset, with a maximum of 4 people and a duration of 3 hours.

As you embark on your tour, you’ll embark on an overland journey to the largest accessible gannet colony in the world through Cape Kidnappers Station, a sprawling 2,500-hectare land with a rich history. 

In addition to sheep and beef farming, this station today features a 200-hectare native bush conservatory and a predator-proof fence running from coast to coast, as well as a luxurious lodge and a privately owned world-class golf course.

While stopping at the cliff top, you’ll be able to admire the remarkable geology of the cliffs and the breathtaking views across Hawkes Bay. The highlight of the tour, however, will be the gannet colony, where you’ll be able to get within just a few feet of these spectacular birds, with their eye markings and golden crowns. Watch as they nest, preen themselves, and perform their courtship dance.

And to make your experience even more enjoyable, you’ll enjoy coffee or tea at the colony. This will truly be an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss!

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari’s – Exclusive Sunrise Tour in Style

Enjoy a exclusive unique tour:

Enjoy a unique tour of Cape Kidnappers and watch the sun rise over the gannets. Travel in our 4 x 4 Range Rover (maximum four people) on an exclusive tour to this iconic site – the world’s largest accessible mainland gannet colony!

Have your encounter with the birds with the sun rising over the plateau. The East Cape of New Zealand is the first to see sunrise daily.

Your 3-hour personal tour  

The conservatory hosts introduced Kiwi and Tuatara along with a wide variety of native birds and wildlife which had previously not survived because of predators such as stoats, weasels, opossums etc.

A luxury lodge on the farm has a privately-owned world-class golf course. A cliff-top stop en route to the colony provides spectacular views across Hawke Bay to Napier and the distant Mahia Peninsula.

On arrival at the colony, you will be mesmerised by the spectacular birds with their eye markings and golden crowns. Within just a few feet of the adults and nesting chicks, see these remarkable birds preening themselves and performing their courtship dance ritual.

A light breakfast is provided with freshly brewed coffee on the sunrise tour.

Each Gannet Colony Tour Includes:

• 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
• 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.

All this will take approximately 3 hours and you need not take a step if you don’t want to!

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Cape Kidnappers

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Cape Kidnappers Station & Gannet Safari

Napier, New Zealand

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 4½ hours

Meals Included

Meals included

Begin your excursion with a drive down Napier's beautiful Marine Parade with its stand of tall Norfolk pines.

Continue along the Hawke's Bay coast to Cape Kidnappers Station . From here, the unpaved road crosses rolling pastures, riverbeds and gullies.

Stopping just a few yards from the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers affords a close-up look at the birds. The gannet is a member of the booby family, and is easily recognized by its distinctive black eye markings and pale gold crown. The birds arrive here at the colony in the latter part of July, and their chicks hatch in late November and December. Migration begins again in March.

See gannets swooping and diving into the sea for food, while others preen themselves or perform the ritual dance of recognition. Cape Kidnappers is one of only two known mainland gannet colonies in the world.

Enjoy light refreshments ; then, relax for the 30-minute journey back to Napier with an orientation drive through the Art Deco district en route to the ship.

Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair. A small snack is included; the snack is not a meal.

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari & Private Wine Tour

One Day In Hawke’s Bay: Wine Tour Or Visit The Gannets? Now You Can Do Both with our Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari & Private Wine Tour!  Combine These Two Spectacular Activities For A Fantastic Action-Packed Day Out In Hawke’s Bay – Nature And Wine

All Tours Hosted By Don Bird.  Read His Outstanding Reviews On Trip Advisor

KATHARINE, AUCKLAND

We were fortunate enough to spend a whole day with Don. He imparted his knowledge and passion for Hawkes Bay wines to us throughout the day. His friendliness and humour made us feel welcome and we felt privileged to be in his company. We will fondly remember our tour and highly recommend Don as a host.

HILARY & JOHN, UK

Now that’s what I call a wine tour! As owners of a small UK vineyard and previous visitors to Hawke’s Bay, we were looking for something that gave us more than a group tour. From the moment Don picked us up in the morning, until the moment we said a somewhat reluctant farewell at the end of the day, we were shown so much more – he really ‘knows his stuff’!!!

DAVID & TRISH SCHISCHKA, AUCKLAN

Don identified what we were looking for and created a day tour to meet our specific needs. Don put together a unique harmony of wine education, access to restricted vineyard areas, wonderful lunch with a blind tasting, local history and sightseeing. A truly educational and memorable experience. Well worth it, highly recommend, do it!

A friend and I had a private tour with Don — we visited two wineries (one where the tasting experience included five wines) and we enjoyed drives through the beautiful countryside enjoying the experience of seeing NewZealand’s varied landscape as well as a pleasurable tea break at Don’s home. Don is a wonderful tour guide and host who enjoys taking his guests wherever they want to go and from whom much can be learned both about winemaking and about New Zealand.

MARTHA, AUSTRALIA

About the tour.

PRICE $495/PP requires a minimum of 2 people per booking * special pricing for group bookings available – contact Don for details 

Includes the Gannet Tour, Private Wine Tour, Lunch and all Wine Tasting Fees

9:30am – 12:30pm

You will be collected from your accommodation and driven to Te Awanga for a 9.30am start on your Gannet Safari. The Gannet Safaris’ Experience takes you to the Cape Kidnappers’ plateau Gannet Colony – the largest, most accessible Gannet nesting place in the world. It’s the only way of being taken to within a few metres of these remarkable birds nesting on the plateau – no walking required. Travel in air-conditioned comfort in specialised 4×4 vehicles.

12:30am – 5:30pm

On return from your Gannet Safari, you will be met by Don, a third generation Hawke’s Bay winemaker with forty years winemaking experience. Hawke’s Bay has earned itself an international reputation for producing high quality Cabernet & Merlot blends, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and an impressive array of aromatic white wines.

Do a Wine Tour and Tasting Presented by a Local Winemaker

As a winemaker himself, our owner Don, believes in hands-on experiences when it comes to a wine tour and tasting in the Hawke’s Bay area. The Esk Valley Estate Winery was in his family ownership from the 1930s through to 1988. He further studied Oenology in South Australia before bringing his new-found knowledge back to New Zealand and his community, to take over from his father. If you have been on positively boring tours and equally excellent ones, you know that the passion and the knowledge of the tour leader are what can make or break a tour. Don is so passionate about wine that he wants whoever goes on the tour to have the best experience while learning about and enjoying what the local vineyards have to offer. Being part of the winemakers’ community, he knows the estates, and they all work together to promote the area, their wines and hospitality to curious visitors.

What You Can Expect From Us Regarding Couples’ Wine Tasting

If you wish to embark on a Winemaker’s Tour, set aside a full day for the beautiful river valleys, exquisite wines and a gourmet lunch at an award-winning restaurant. Have a look at what you can expect from us as soon as we pick you up at your accommodation.

• Comfort and style. Getting to the six award-winning wineries in the area is a journey through winelands and valleys, in the comfort of a private SUV with aircon. Don will share his knowledge and information about the surrounds, the history of the wineries in the area, and the wines of Napier as you drive through the wineries.
• VIP experience. If you are looking for a romantic wine tasting, what is a better way to treat your partner than with a wine tasting tour done by an actual winemaker? Furthermore, you will be treated as a VIP at every estate to ensure your experience is unique and memorable. To further seal the deal, you will enjoy a gourmet meal at one of two award-winning local restaurants.
• Scenery. En route to your wine tasting experience with lunch, you can take beautiful pictures with your loved one at the Te Mata Peak, where you can admire an exquisite view of Hawke’s Bay and capture the moment to remember the wine tour for years to come. Part of the wine tour is also to be fully immersed in the experience, to see and drive through the vineyards where the award-winning Napier wines originate.
• History. The history of the Gimblett Gravels area shows that success is all a matter of perspective and resources. After a significant flood, the soil became stratified gravel soil that no animal or crop could survive on. This unfortunate soil type would prove to be the perfect place to grow grapes. The rocky texture lets water through quickly, while the stones heat the earth in the hot New Zealand sun during the day, to further radiate and ripen the grapes at night. These resistant grapes thrive in ground temperatures of five degrees. It is this soil that will give birth to New Zealand’s first Syrah.

While enjoying an excellent wine on one our visits, you don’t merely savour a beverage; you also take in the beautiful scenery, the rich history of the area, and savouring the unique grape varieties and flavours of the wine. Every sip is a taste experience, and we want to give you the best memories to revisit while you enjoy the Napier wine from New Zealand and think back to your wine and food tasting on your holiday.

Fun Facts About Food and Wine Tasting in Napier

A visit to NZ is not complete without a winery tour and tasting. There are a few benefits to going on a private wine tour that you might find more appealing, that we wish to share with you:

• Control. Many visitors to the Napier area value their privacy and alone time with their family more than they do the price of a ticket for a public tour. The knowledge and experience that a winemaker from the area adds to your private tour are priceless while you will not have to compete for his attention to ask questions about the grape varietals. On a private tour, you are in control of your day and can decide on the itinerary for the day.
• Soil diversity. Hawke’s Bay is the oldest wine region in New Zealand, with the first cultivars planted in 1851 by missionaries. The soil of this area is so diverse that many different cultivars are grown here on sand, silt, gravel and clay, making for a small area producing a wide variety of wines excellent for wine tours and tasting experiences.
• Varietals. The region has a complex mesoclimate, but the hot summers and long autumns experienced in the area makes it perfect for viticulture to thrive. Initially, there was only experimented with white varietals, and only later were the red grapes planted. These thrived in the climate so well that from this diverse soil, they produced ultra-premium wines including Bordeaux-style reds and full-bodied Chardonnays. The Syrah, as New Zealand’s first, was produced here and is the leading, sought-after wine produced in the region.

You don’t have to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy a wine tasting and lunch; the wine tours are perfect for amateurs who wish to learn more about winemaking and the passion and time that goes into making award-winning wines.

About The Winemaker’s Tour

If you are in the Napier area and in the mood for a wine tasting and food adventure, we have a day of beautiful scenery, exquisite wine and professional tasting experience waiting for you. Don does all the tours himself and will book you according to availability, as he believes in quality experiences and the only way to ensure that is to share the knowledge and passion for wine, himself.

You can contact us via email or phone, or alternatively, you can fill in a booking form with your preferred dates for a private tour.

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CONTACT DON & ROSLYN

If you have any questions about any of their tours, Don and Roslyn would warmly welcome them. You can book online above using the form or contact them directly using the numbers and email address below. They look forward to meeting you and sharing their passion for Hawke’s Bay.

Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand Mobile: +64 276072396 Mobile: +64 272815738 Mobile: +64 276072396 Email :  [email protected]