Gannets

Bird lovers love Cape Kidnappers. The gannet reserve there is rare in ornithological circles as it contains the largest and most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. Known to the Maori as Takapu, the gannet is usually an island breeder but has made a notable exception at Cape Kidnappers on the East Coast of the North Island.

Nothing will quite prepare you for the experience that awaits, administered by the Department of Conservation, this area presents a special, up close opportunity to observe the Gannet in its natural environment. The Gannet, a member of the Booby family, is related to the families of shags, pelicans and frigate-birds. Adult Australasian Gannets have a wing span of up to 2 metres and an average weight of 2kgs. Whilst ungainly on land, these birds are designed for graceful flying and diving from great heights into the sea to catch fish. As the birds are migratory, the first trip for the new chicks is to Australia where they stay for 2 – 3 years before they return to New Zealand to live.

The reserve attracts many visitors from both New Zealand and overseas who make the trek around the coast from Te Awanga on foot, sitting on the back of tractors that meander along the beach, overland by 4WD or even on kayaks. To walk to the Cape, leave you car at Clifton Domain, located 21 km south of Napier and 18 km east of Hastings. The domain has a camping ground, boat-launching area, and is a popular swimming point. The 8km walk takes about two hours and can only be done safely at certain times. It is important to only set off with the latest information on getting to the colony, which is available from all local visitor information centres. There are many sights along the way including spectacular views of stratified rock beds featuring gravels, conglomerate and mudstone. The sea and wind have also carved interesting shapes out of the soft sands and shingles of the cliffs.

Alternatives to walking to the Cape include Gannet Safari Overland from Summerlee Station and tractor and trailer tour company, or Gannet Beach Adventures along the beach from Te Awanga.

The best time to go is from early November (hatching time) to late February. The reserve is closed to the public from July to the Wednesday before Labour Day each year. The saddle and Black Reef colonies are closed at all times.