Cape Kidnappers Exclusive Sunrise Gannet Tour

Sep-Apr

North Island

Gannet Safaris Overland

from

NZ$930

per person

Tour group enjoying the sunrise view at Cape Kidnappers overlooking the Pacific Ocean

Experiences

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Private Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Te Awanga (or Napier, Hastings, Havelock North)

Locations: 4 See all

Travel Time: 3 hours

Details

Sunrise Serenity at Cape Kidnappers

As the first rays of light sweep over New Zealand’s East Cape, Cape Kidnappers awakens with a breathtaking golden glow. Travelling in a luxury 4x4 Range Rover, you’ll journey across rolling farmland towards the world’s largest accessible mainland gannet colony. With only four guests per tour, the experience feels deeply personal and peaceful.

Watch as the gannets stretch their wings in the morning light, their golden crowns shimmering against the horizon. A light breakfast and freshly brewed coffee set the tone for a tranquil start to your day. The sounds of the ocean below blend with the calls of seabirds, creating a symphony that’s uniquely Cape Kidnappers.

Scenic coastal view of Cape Kidnappers and winding road from the overland safari tour

Sunrise over the Pacific Ocean from Cape Kidnappers with gannets flying overhead

People watching sunrise beside 4x4 vehicle on Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safaris tour

Large gannet breeding colony at Cape Kidnappers with lighthouse visible in the background

Tour guest taking photo of sunrise from Cape Kidnappers during Gannet Safaris private tour

Close-up view of gannets nesting at Cape Kidnappers at sunrise

Young Australasian gannet with downy feathers at Cape Kidnappers colony

Close-up of Australasian gannets resting on the nesting grounds at Cape Kidnappers

Exploring Nature and Heritage at Cape Kidnappers Station

The three-hour guided journey takes you across Cape Kidnappers Station, a 2,500-hectare working farm rich in history. Beyond sheep and cattle grazing, the land shelters a 200-hectare wildlife conservatory protected by a coast-to-coast predator-proof fence. Here, Kiwi, Tuatara, and other native species thrive in safety.

Along the route, you’ll stop at a cliff-top lookout with panoramic views of Hawke Bay, Napier, and the distant Mahia Peninsula. The luxury lodge and golf course within the station speak to its blend of natural beauty and refined comfort. This exclusive experience offers both serenity and discovery—New Zealand at its purest.