Muriwai Gannet Colony

Witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays with Great North Tours at the Muriwai Gannet Colony, perched on the rugged cliffs of Auckland’s west coast. From August to March, these sheer volcanic rock stacks become a bustling nursery for over 1,200 pairs of takapu (Australasian gannets), providing a rare opportunity to observe their intricate nesting rituals and breathtaking "plunge-diving" fishing techniques from just a few meters away. Well-maintained viewing platforms offer panoramic vistas of the birds soaring on the thermal updrafts against the backdrop of the crashing Tasman Sea and the vast, shimmering black sands of Muriwai Beach. Whether you are a photography enthusiast capturing the dramatic aerial displays or a nature lover soaking in the raw energy of the coastline, a visit to this thriving colony offers an unforgettable encounter with New Zealand’s extraordinary wildlife.