Gannet Safaris Overland to Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnappers safari experience takes you to Hawke’s Bay Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony – the world’s largest, most accessible Gannet nesting place. It’s the only way of being taken right to within a few feet of these remarkable birds & there is no walking required!

Enjoy an overland safari or helicopter safari through the spectacular scenery of Cape Kidnappers Station and see over 20,000 gannets, with their distinctive black eye markings & a pale gold crown.

Visitors to the colony will see adults and young nesting in serried rows carrying out their daily routine. In the air above your heads these amazing birds with their six foot wing span swoop and dive as they bring back fish. On the ground, the pairs preen and perform the dance of the gannets’ recognition ritual.

Activity Options

Gannet Safaris has been guiding visitors over Cape Kidnappers for over 35 years.

Overland Safaris

• You will travel in comfort in an air conditioned 4 x 4 wheeled vehicle, through Cape Kidnappers Station – traversing riverbeds, broad rolling pastures, stands of native bush and steep gullies.

• There is a stop on the way at a spectacular cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke Bay.

• The 36km, three hour trip includes a commentary by your tour guide on the farming operation on Cape Kidnappers Station and an introduction to the gannets.

• On arrival at the gannets you can stretch your legs and take in the mouthwatering scenery from your position at the brink of the cliffs edge – 100 metres above the ocean.

• Here your guide will serve you refreshments whilst you enjoy watching the gannets perform.

• The birds can be seen from September to early May. 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 & departing flight in late April, early May for warmer climates.

• The Safaris cater for small or large groups. Private exclusive tours are available on request.

Scenic Safaris

• Whilst the gannets are overseas May – August, Overland Safaris operate scenic safaris. Enjoy all the breathtaking scenery of the rugged coastal 2,000 hectare Cape Kidnappers Station in the comfort of a 4WD. The Station is a one of Hawke’s Bay’s most picturesque working sheep & cattle stations.

Helicopter Safaris

• Experience the thrill of a 30 minute scenic flight of your choice, over scenic wine country, majestic Te Mata peak and Tuki Tuki Valley, and Hawke’s Bays scenic coastline.

• You land on the spectacular cliffs of Cape Kidnappers Station to be met by your guide for your exclusive Gannet Safari to Cape Kidnapper’s gannet colony.

• Transport from the Helicopter to the Cape is in a 4 x 4 luxury air conditioned vehicle.

• A full commentary is provided including the geology and history of Cape Kidnappers. Enjoy the drive through gullies filled with native bush, rugged terrain and sweeping panoramic views.

• Other options are available and can be tailor made to suit your requirements, such as pick up or drop off at your accommodation by helicopter.

Tour Times

Tours depart daily from Summerlee:

• Gannet Safari Tours: Operate seven days, September – April, departing 9:30 am and 1:30pm.
• Scenic Safari Tours by 4 x 4 or Helicopter: Operate seven days, all year round, departing 10:00 am (minimum 4 persons) – times can be arranged to suit.

Location

Summerlee, RD 2, Hastings, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand.

Cape Kidnappers is located at Te Awanga, Hawke’s Bay. Tours depart from Summerlee. Visitors to Hawke’s Bay can follow the signs to “Cape Kidnappers” from Clive to Te Awanga. Once through Te Awanga village, cross the bridge and within 100 metres the Gannet Safari Overland sign and entrance are on the right.