Cape Kidnappers
A headland at the southern end of Hawke Bay hosting one of the largest and most accessible mainland colonies of Australasian gannets anywhere in the world.
Quick Facts
- Region
- Hawke's Bay, North Island
- Best time
- Oct – Apr (breeding season)
- Entry fee
- From NZD $50 (guided tour)
- Duration
- Half day
Overview
Cape Kidnappers takes its English name from an attempted kidnapping of a cabin boy by local Māori during Captain Cook's 1769 visit — its Māori name, Te Kauwae-a-Māui, refers to the jawbone of the demigod Māui's legendary fish. Today it's best known for its gannet colony, which grows to over 20,000 birds during the October–April breeding season.
The colony is one of very few mainland gannet breeding sites in the world accessible on foot or by vehicle, rather than requiring a boat trip to an offshore island. Guided tractor-trailer and 4WD tours run along the beach beneath towering cliffs to reach the colony itself.
Things To Do
- Gannet colony viewing — walk among nesting gannets at close range during breeding season.
- Beach tour by tractor or 4WD — a guided ride along the coastline beneath dramatic cliffs to reach the colony.
- Clifftop walking track — a longer, independent walking route for those not taking a guided tour.
- Photography — dense nesting colonies and dramatic coastal cliffs make for striking wildlife shots.
- Farm and vineyard stops — several tours combine the colony visit with a working farm or vineyard stop nearby.
Getting There
Cape Kidnappers is about 30 minutes' drive from Napier or Hastings to the tour departure point, from where guided tractor, 4WD or walking tours cover the final stretch along the beach. Self-driving the beach route isn't permitted.
| Location | Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Guided tours run on a tide-dependent schedule, Oct – Apr |
| Entry Fee | From NZD $50 (guided tour) |
| Duration | Half day, including transport |
| Accessibility | Guided vehicle tours accessible; walking track is longer and uneven |
Gallery
Nearby Attractions
Te Mata Peak
A limestone peak with sweeping views over Hawke's Bay, a short drive away.
Hawke's Bay Wine Trail
New Zealand's oldest wine region, known for Bordeaux-style reds and Chardonnay.
Napier
The Art Deco capital of the world, rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake.