Napier, New Zealand

Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony

One of Only Two Mainland Colonies in the World Journey to the nesting site of the gannet, a tranquil paradise for birders and nature lovers alike. Drive with your guide along Napier’s scenic Marine Parade and Hawke’s Bay, passing dramatic stands of tall Norfolk pines. From Cape Kidnappers Station, follow an unpaved road across rolling pastures, riverbeds and gullies. We will stop just a few yards from the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers, giving you a close-up look at the birds. Gannets are easily recognized by their distinctive black eye markings and pale gold crown. They arrive here in late July, and their chicks hatch about four months later. Watch as gannets swoop and dive for food, preen themselves or perform their ritual mating dance. After taking time to marvel at this symphony of song and flight, enjoy a refreshing tea. En route back to your ship, take a brief orientation drive through the Art Deco District of Napier. * Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.