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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!

Return To Napier, Hawkes Bay page

Booking for Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony Tours

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

Cape Kidnappers | Te Kauwae-a-Māui

• Attractions >
• Natural wonders

Cape Kidnappers | Te Kauwae-a-Māui is a craggy, but stunning peninsula that is ever-present to life in Hawke’s Bay.

Originally known as Te Kauwae-a-Māui (the jawbone of Māui), it takes its name from the story of Māui fishing up the North Island of New Zealand (Te Ika-a-Māui), using his grandmother's jawbone as his hook. The curve of the cape represents the hook, while another name for the wider Hawke’s Bay region area is Te Matau-a-Māui (the fish hook of Māui).

Cape Kidnappers would later be named as such in commemoration of an incident during Captain Cook’s 1769 voyage when Māori traders are said to have seized Cook’s Tahitian cabin boy who they thought was being held against his will. When Cook’s men fired on the Māori canoe, the cabin boy escaped and returned to the ship.

Now, the iconic pale cliffs of Cape Kidnappers | Te Kauwae-a-Māui make for iconic viewing along the full length of the bay and from Marine Parade in Napier, and are especially eye-catching in the late afternoon sun.

Gannets galore

Visitors can get within a few feet of the world’s largest, most accessible mainland gannet colony which is at the top of the Cape’s sheer and barren cliffs. Take an overland tour experience with Gannet Safaris Overland  where you will travel in 4x4 vehicles across pristine coastline, working farmland, through native bush and to New Zealand’s largest privately-owned nature reserve.

Viewing the gannets is possible from September to April before the gannets migrate to warmer climates.

Experienced walkers can traverse the coastline from Clifton to the Cape. This is considered a ‘back country’ track and it is critical to check tide times and review latest hazard warnings, including the risk of landslides and rockfall. Always check the Department of Conservation’s website for more information about track maintenance and/or closures.

World class golf course

The area is home to the par 71, Tom Doak-designed  Cape Kidnappers Golf Course . The course, 140m above sea level, is consistently ranked among the world's best courses .

Luxury Accommodation

Set atop 6,000 rolling acres of stunning pasture-land,  The Farm at Cape Kidnappers  offers elegant lodge style accommodation, with spectacular 180-degree views overlooking the farmland, golf course and Pacific Ocean.

Take a look...

Gannet Colony at Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnapper Cliffs

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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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Regular Tours

Watch champion seabirds soar, swoop, dance, and dive right before your eyes into the blue ocean. Experience the tour that takes you overland to Cape Kidnappers and within metres of the magnificent Gannets. Starting off at our Te Awanga base, take a 4WD safari through spectacular coastlines, working farms, native bush and to New Zealand’s largest privately-owned nature reserve. Come face to face with over 20,000 gannets in their natural habitat. Enjoy breathtaking views across the plateau and the open horizon over the deep ocean at your feet.

Open from 1 September – 30 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.

Regular Tours from our Te Awanga base 396 Clifton Road, Te Awanga (aprox a 25 minute drive from Napier)

• Adult (18+ years): $96
• Child (5-17 years): $48
• Infant (0-4 years): Free

No seat allocation and must be on lap. Only 1 infant per adult.

Book Now Gift Vouchers

Regular Tours including transfers from Napier or Hastings or Havelock North (i-Sites): Pick up times for transfers are at either 8.45am or 12.45pm

• Adult (18+ years): $136
• Child (5-17 years): $68

Book Now Enquire Now

Cancellation Policy

Payments accepted by Bank Credit Cards, Cash or Agent Voucher. – Tours must be pre-paid. We reserve the right to cancel for events beyond our control & if minimum number are not meet for a tour to operate. Should you cancel within 48 hours of tour, no refund 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 ticket price paid will be refunded less fees.

Child & Infant Policy Children 5-18 years inclusive – 50% of adult fare. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Infant under 4 years – Free of charge, no seat allocation and must be on lap. – Only 1 infant per adult.

Tour Highlights

A unique 3-hour, 36-kilometre guided tour from stunning coast to cape

Learn about the geology and history of Cape Kidnappers

Fascinating introduction to gannet colony from expert local guides

Home to largest most accessible Gannet colony in the world

Cultural storytelling and Māori legends

See a working farm in action including cows, sheep, and horses

Photo opportunities at points of interest

Breath-taking views of Hawke’s Bay, Mahia Peninsula and Mount Ruapehu

Panoramic lookouts towards the vast Pacific Ocean

Catering to all ages and fitness levels

Over 50 years of guiding experience

Air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles

Tea/coffee/hot chocolate provided

Frequently asked questions

Children 5-18 years inclusive – 50% of adult fare. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Infant under 4 years – Free of charge, no seat allocation and must be on lap. – Only 1 infant per adult.

Payments accepted by Bank Credit Cards, Cash or Agent Voucher. – Tours must be pre-paid. We reserve the right to cancel for events beyond our control & if minimum number are not meet for a tour to operate. Should you cancel within 48 hours of tour, no refund 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.

Yes, we have a large off-road carpark, plenty big enough for several motorhomes to safely park up while you enjoy our tour.

our base is a 25-minute drive from Napier, Hastings and Havelock North

a maximum of 20 people

No – as we travel overland above the cliff tops

The birds are just as active in the morning as they are in the afternoon, no time is better than the other.

The last chance to dance is at our base where we have very good bathroom facilities. On the tour there is only the odd tree for emergencies.

Absolutely – we get plenty of photographers. Everyone has different light preferences… some even do a morning trip one day and an afternoon trip the next so they can get the right shot. Photographers also love the sunrise tour.

Unfortunately no, as we ae traveling through a wildlife sanctuary and got to a Doc reserve with over 20,000 gannets – dogs are not permitted.

Absolutely. As long as you can hop on and off the bus unaided then the tour is good for you! The plateau it is all flat ground so walking is very safe and easy, there are bench seats that can be sat on. Everything can also be seen from the bus without having to get out.

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“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

Gannet Safari`s is proud to support the conservation efforts of #capesanctuary through our tourism partnership. While the #gannet season has pressed pause for the winter months, Cape Sanctuary tours are still up and running! Book now to se Hawke`s Bays best kept secret and a chance for up close encounters with critically endangered takahē and more!

Gannet Safaris Overland has once again been awarded a 2024 Travellers Choice Award from TripAdvisor. 🙌 Many thanks to everyone for their wonderful reviews and for coming and experiencing our awesome tour with us 🐦🚌🛳. @tripadvisor #capekidnappers #gannets

We are absolutely thrilled to have been named as finalists by Tourism Export Council New Zealand for the 2024 Small Allied Tour Operator of the Year Award. We’re honoured to be in such good company alongside Mackenzie helicopters Helicopters. Wishing the very best to all of the finalists ahead of the awards in Invercargill this August

The Cape Kidnappers Gannet colony offers an exquisite opportunity for photographers to capture the beauty of thousands of birds against a stunning backdrop. With thousands of birds only meters away, everyone and every camera leaves with incredible photos to match the memories. Book your summer experience online now to see why photographers, amateurs and professionals alike label #GannetSafaris as a must do experience! #photography #hawkesbay #gannetsafaris #gannetsafarisoverland #capekidnappers #hbtourism

Gannets aren’t the only bird who call the Cape Kidnappers Peninsula home! Hundreds of little blue penguins burrow along the shoreline of the peninsula, inhabiting sand dune, coastal grasses and cliffside. In fact, the lower gannet colony shares terrain with penguin burrows. These gorgeous penguins are kept safe by the pest control and habitat restoration work of the @cape_sanctuary team! #penguins #littlebluepenguin #gannetsafaris #gannets #capekidnappers #hbtourism #gannet #nzbirds

Did you know there’s not one, not two but three colonies at the Cape Kidnappers point! Located below the steep cliffs of the main colony is a slightly smaller seaside colony where gannets and fur seals share the rocky shore. Further along the point is the ‘saddle’ colony, a smaller collective only viewed from the main platform as erosion has rendered the cliff side impassable. #gannets #nz #nativebirdsnz #capekidnappers #gannetsafarisoverland #gannets #takapu #nz #hbnz #tourism

The currently empty nest sites at #Capekidnappers have us reminiscing about sweet spring moments like this. #capekidnappers #capesanctuary #conservation #gannets #hbnz #hawkesbay #hbtourism

Dreaming about summer already? Look no further than Gannet Safari’s Overland! The only overland access to the world renowned Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony. #hawkesbay #hbnz #travelnz #newzealand #nz #gannets #gannetcolony #capekidnappers #birds

The Overland Gannet Safari adventure travels through nationally Cape Kidnapper`s station. Whilst gannets are at the centre of the show, witnessing the incredible landscape of the Cape Kidnappers peninsula and the land`s farming history is a memorable experience in itself. Be greeted by hundreds of sheep and cattle, and, if you`re lucky catch working dogs in action across the steep hillsides. #capekidnappers #newzealand #hbtourism #hbsummer #gannetsafaris #birdphoto #hawkesbay #nz #gannetsafarisoverland #nzconservation #gannettours #hawkesbaynz #nzbirds #NZ #farming #nzfarmers

The Cape Kidnapper`s 20,000 strong Gannet Colony is Aotearoa New Zealand`s largest accessible mainland colony and is a MUST DO for locals and visitors alike! Marvel at the beauty and sheer size of this incredible colony, perched above the daunting cliffs of the stunning Cape Kidnappers coastline. #birdphoto #gannets #hawkesbay #capekidnappers #gannetsafaris #hbsummer #newzealand #hbtourism #nz #hawkesbaynz #nzconservation #nativebirds #lovenz #gannetsafarisoverland #gannettours #nzbirds

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• Bird Watching Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris

Bird Watching - Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris Hawkes Bay

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Cape Kidnappers Bird Watching Tour

• Ask a Question
• 3 hour guided 4WD tour of gannet colony
• Spectacular views of Hawke's Bay
• Learn the history of Cape Kidnappers
• Morning & afternoon tea included

Description

The Gannet Colony at Cape Kidnappers With keenly intelligent eyes and snow white feathers, the amazing gannet is a favourite of bird watchers everywhere. If you're a fan of the gannet, or if you just want to witness an amazing and beautiful creature in its natural habitat, you will delight in seeing the 20,000 strong flock at Cape Kidnappers in the Hawkes Bay, the largest mainland gannet colony in the world!

The gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers – which is also the most accessible colony in the world – is able to be seen from September to late April annually, during which time these beautiful birds build their nests, lay their eggs and raise their chicks. The chicks take wing for the first time in late April (or early May, for the late bloomers) for their first migration to a warmer climate. A visit to Cape Kidnappers during this time will allow you to see both adults and young gannets, nesting in their tight-knit rows.

Members of the Booby family, these stunning looking birds attract their mates – as well as many a bird watcher – with their golden crown and distinctive black eye and beak markings, as well as their impressive six-foot wingspan. As they go about their routine, you will be awed to see the flashes of bright white, gold and black as they swoop and dive for their dinner, preen themselves, tend to their young and dance their recognition ritual.

As you enjoy refreshments and listen to the friendly and knowledgeable guide talk about the beautiful gannets, you will not only be mesmerised by the performance of the birds around you, but the scenery will also amaze you. From the viewing point – a cliffs edge, 100 metres above the ocean – you will see azure blue ocean span out across the horizon and hemmed by slate grey cliffs, dotted with emerald bushland.

With 35 years' experience, Gannet Safaris know how to ensure you have a great bird watching adventure. By delivering you within metres of the gannet colony in their comfortable, air conditioned 4x4 vehicles, Gannet Safaris are the only safari that guarantee you won't have to work up a sweat walking to the birds. During the 36km ride to the viewing site, you will see the gorgeous green pastures, riverbeds, deep gullies, inclines and native bush of Cape Kidnappers Station. You will also have a stop-in at a panoramic cliff top that looks out over the lovely scenery from Hawke Bay, across to the Mahia Peninsula.

Trip Includes

• Optional return transfers from Hastings or Napier (additional cost)
• Expert guides and commentary
• Gannet colony tour
• Refreshments
• Allow 3 hours (4 hours with transfers)
• 9.30am & 1.30pm
• Meet at the Gannet Safaris base at 396 Clifton Road, Te Awanga 
• Hastings & Napier accommodation transfers are available at an additional cost
• Operates daily during summer months (Sep - Apr)

Other Information

• Child rates 5-18yrs apply
• Children 0-4yrs are free of charge
• Tours do not operate from May to August
• Hastings/Napier transfers depart at 8:45am & 12:45pm
• Private charters available, please contact us for more information

Normal Retail Prices

• From Te Awanga NZD$96.00
• From Te Awanga NZD$48.00
• Hastings/Napier transfers (adult) NZD$40.00
• Hastings/Napier transfers (child) NZD$20.00

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All prices shown in NZD$.

Genuine Customer Reviews powered by

Service rating:

Even though it was raining our kid was very incitful and it was great getting up close to the gannets.

Product rating:

Purchasing was very easy. Picked a time and was phoned within 30 minutes to confirm

Reviewed 22-Nov-2023

I would recommend them again - primarily because Jan was an excellent and knowledgeable guide.

Reviewed 03-Feb-2018

It i an easy way to book. Our problem is that we travel with a campervan and have a laptop with us but not a printer. We can't print the tickets in the campervan and have to go somewhere else to print. Maybe you can work on that and use the mobile phone for sending the ticket number.

Very very good and enjoyable. The driver was talking all the time giving us info about the history and current state of the area we drove through. The people were all very friendly and relaxed. We were allowed to stay overnight with our campervan. We have already told several people how good this trip was.

Reviewed 20-Mar-2013

Reply from Everything Travel Group

Hi Hank & Ina. Thanks so much for your feedback and I'm so glad to hear you enjoyed your tour. You are absolutely right about the problem with having to print the tickets. We have no problems with customers not printing tickets however some of the activity operators do still require a printed ticket. We have been in discussions with the activity operators to allow our customers to not have to print a ticket and instead simply turn up with a reservation number or booking name. Most operators are fine with this now and hopefully in the near future there will no longer be a requirement to present a printed ticket. Thanks again for your comments. Callum Goodall Everything Travel Group

Posted 24-Mar-2013

Latest Questions about Bird Watching - Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris (Hawkes Bay)

Are the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris tours available in July?

the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris does not run between May and August

Comment by: Everything Travel Group - Kaitlin on 27th Apr 24 at 09:56

1 comment - Post a Comment

Do you take infants on your tours?

Yes, infants (children under 5 years old) can join the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris Tour free of charge.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand on 17th Sep 20 at 15:36

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Shore Excursion Details

Cape kidnappers & gannet safari, napier, new zealand.

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• 4 1/2 hrs Estimate Duration

Board a 20-seat, safari vehicle, sit back and enjoy a scenic drive along the coast as you make your way to Te Awanga and Cape Kidnappers Station. Arriving at Cape Kidnappers Station, a privately-owned country farm, you’ll be driven over the rich farmland to within a few feet of the gannet sanctuary at Cape Kidnappers. As you cross river beds, broad rolling pastures, steep gullies and breathtaking inclines your guide will provide commentary about the area and life on this 4,500-acre farm.

Cape Kidnappers itself is a dramatic peninsula at the southern end of Hawke's Bay and is the largest and most accessible mainland nesting place of gannets in the world. This is an excellent opportunity to view the gannets in their natural habitat. Enjoy a spectacular view of the rugged coastline from Hawke's Bay all the way north to Mahia Peninsula, from the brink of a cliff that rises 328 feet above the beach. For your enjoyment, afternoon tea will be served.

You'll once more cross the countryside as you retrace your path back to Napier. Approaching the city, your route will take you along the Marine Parade, seeing the stately Norfolk Pines and traveling past such sites as the bronze statue of Pania of the Reef, the Tom Parker Fountain, Floral Clock, Soundshell and Marineland.

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Check out the, activity attributes, excursion type:.

Activity Level:

• 3 Challenging

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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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Experience golf at the edge of the earth

play Cape Kidnappers

Golf at Cape Kidnappers

Set atop rolling hills and rugged cliffs that give way to vast sea views and an ever-present horizon, Cape Kidnappers is home to the 18-hole golf course crafted by Tom Doak, and luxury resort Rosewood Cape Kidnappers.

Cape Kidnappers occupies a breathtaking peninsula at the southern end of Hawke's Bay, extending 10 kilometers into the South Pacific. The golf course and adjacent resort, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, occupy a 6,000-acre working sheep and cattle station protected by over 10 kilometers of predator proof fencing. This barrier creates Cape Sanctuary, the largest privately owned and funded wildlife restoration projec  t of it's kind in New Zealand. By protecting New Zealand's native flora and fauna from predators, our golfers are treated to unforgettable play surrounded by rare and endangered bird life that call the tree clad ravines home.

Cape Kidnappers GREEN FEES

All prices are exclusive of GST. 15% Goods and Services tax is applicable above the standard rates. Guests of the Lodge receive a 10% discount off the applicable 18 Hole Green Fee

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In the words of course designer Tom Doak

Our goal in designing golf courses is to create interesting holes you wouldn't find anywhere else. That wasn't hard to do at Cape Kidnappers, because the site is not like anywhere else in golf. If it were any bigger or any more dramatic, it would probably be cordoned off as a national park. It's an overwhelming experience to stand up on the cliffs, 140 meters above sea level, and look out across the waves far below in Hawke's Bay.

Cape Kidnappers is not true links terrain, with the wrinkles of sand dunes; instead the land tilts toward the sea as a series of ridges jutting out toward the edge of the cliffs. Yet, the play is seaside golf at its finest. The surface is firm and fast, the conditions can be windy, and the player who can control his trajectory will be master of the course. You'll hit shots over the tops of the tea trees, and play along the edges of deep ravines. If you stray on your approaches, you'll actually hope to get caught up in bunkers hanging off the green's edge, some of them deeper than you've ever seen before. Three times, you'll have to make the perilous leap from the end of one ridge to the end of the next. And at the sixth and fifteenth holes it's possible to pull your approach off the very end of the earth, though it will take nearly ten seconds of hang time for your ball to reach the ocean below.

For myself and my associates, it was a great adventure to track up the hill every day and build a golf course in such a remarkable setting. We hope you enjoy your time here as much as we have. New Zealand is a long way from home, but Cape Kidnappers is never far from our hearts."

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Featured Event

Spring pairs tournament.

The annual Spring Pairs golf tournament at Rosewood Cape Kidnpapers is set for 11-13 October 2024. A fabulous weekend focussed around a friendly Stableford competition with 36 holes over two days.

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Golf Day Package

Tournament days designed exclusively for your group of 24 players or more. A perfect way to celebrate colleagues, clients or friendship at Cape Kidnappers.

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers shares our incredible 6,000-acre peninsula, with unforgettable vistas of the vast Pacific Ocean. Amidst the region's rich cultural heritage and its burgeoning culinary scene discover rustic luxury.

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