Gannet Beach Adventures
Gannet Landing
Gannet Beach Adventures offers over 54 years experience in taking guests to Cape Kidnappers Gannet Reserve. This reserve is the largest most accessible Gannet Colony in the world, and very unique to Hawke’s Bay. There are four colonies that cover the Cape Kidnappers area:
The Saddle Colony was first noted in 1870 and now has grown to 1900 breeding pairs; The Plateau Colony has 2200 breeding pairs; Black Reef Colony has 4500 breeding pairs; and the newest, Whale Bone Colony is home to 1100 breeding pairs. Gannet numbers are increasing up to 5% each season.
This mild, safe, nature tour travels along the base of the cliffs, on the day’s low tide. Travel on comfortable cushioned trailer towed by a unique, classic vintage tractor. Journey over rocks, sand and gravel while enjoying the natural and fresh environment. Tour is suitable for all ages.
Let our experienced guides show you the fascinating geology, earthquake fault lines and fossils. Narrative information stops are guaranteed.
A stopover of approximately 1.5 hours allows time for a scenic walk to the Plateau and Saddle colonies. On the return journey a stop is made at the Black Reef Colony, the largest colony at Cape Kidnappers which can be viewed easily from the trailers.
Operating Hours - Seasonal-October to May
As we travel along the beach, departure times are based on the low tide time. We can depart as early as 7:00am to as late as 5:00pm; see our web site for departure schedule.
Location:
Departure site is Clifton Beach. 20 minutes from either Napier or Hastings. This is a well sign-posted and easy to see location.
Shuttle pick up can be arranged at an additional cost.
Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce Inaugural Tourism Category Award Winner 1998 and Finalist 2000
