Gannet Safaris Overland to Cape Kidnappers

The Cape Kidnappers gannet 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 through the spectacular scenery of Cape Kidnappers Station and see over 20,000 gannets, with their distinctive black eye markings.

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.

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari 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 4WD vehicle, through Cape Kidnappers Station – traversing riverbeds, 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’s Bay.
The 36 km, three hour trip includes 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.
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.
The Safaris cater for small or large groups. Private tours are available on request.

More Information

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari Tour Times

Tours depart daily from Summerlee:

Gannet Safari Tours: Operate 7 days, September – April
Napier Departure 8:45 am and 12:45 pm daily
Te Awanga Departure 9.30 am and 1.30 pm daily

Location

Summerlee, RD 2, Hastings, Hawke’s 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.

Alternatively you can leave from Napier/Hastings.

Book the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari

You can book a Cape Kidnappers gannet tour separately or as part of one of our New Zealand holiday packages. We bundle activities, accommodation, and transportation together for convenient, affordable New Zealand holidays.

Experience the gannet safari with these popular New Zealand holiday packages: