Important Note: The track providing access to the viewpoints of the colony is subject to long-term closure due to storm damage.
Gannets are present at the Muriwai Gannet Colony from August to March. During this time, they breed and parent their chicks until they are ready to jump off the cliff and fly to Australia. After a few years, the surviving adults return to carve out their own nest space and repeat the cycle. It could almost be a metaphor for many Kiwis!
The path goes around the edge of the colony on Otakamiro Point, with several fabulous viewpoints. In places, the gannets are only about a metre or so away and show no apparent concern for their audience. The southern viewpoint is the best position to see the birds wheeling around the sky and figuring out their landing spot.
It's a great experience at any time of the day, but as always, sunset is best.
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