Gannet Beach Adventures
Tractor & trailer tour along the beach to the world's largest most accessible mainland gannet colony, Clifton, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand
Hawkes Bay, New Zealand

tractor tour group gannet Cape Kidnappers cliffs

Adventure, Education, Back to Nature

Gannet Beach Adventures is a family oriented eco-friendly beach tour to the world famous gannet sanctuary located at Cape Kidnappers in the Hawke's Bay, New Zealand.

With over fifty years' experience, Gannet Beach Adventures provides an approximate four-hour mild, safe and comfortable adventure. We travel along the majestically rugged coastline of Cape Kidnappers to the world's largest mainland Gannet nesting site. Sit on a cushioned trailer, pulled by a unique vintage tractor, and enjoy the fresh open air travelling along the beach at the base of the towering cliffs.

Tour season is from October to early May each year.

Our experienced guides make personalised narrative stops, to view the geology and inspiring earthquake faults formed millions of years ago.

Approximately one and a half hours at Cape Kidnappers leaves ample time for a swim, picnic or a scenic 25 minute walk to view the Saddle, Plateau colonies and extensive view of Hawke's Bay. On the return journey, a brief stop is made at the Black Reef Colony. This is the largest of the four gannet colonies at Cape Kidnappers.

The Gannets can be viewed from a very close distance, set in their raw natural environment.
A Department of Conservation rest shelter provides information boards on geology and Gannets. The shelter also provides fresh water, along with picnic and toilet facilities.

Maximum capacity is 160 people. Educational school tours are a specialty. Email us for information and details.

For information on this season's schedule, bookings and/or costs, click here.

The tour operates in all weather conditions. Suitable footwear and clothing is required - eg. hat and sunscreen for sunny days, and light rain jacket or wet weather gear for wet days. Guests are welcome to bring their own refreshments. Lunches, and morning and/or afternoon teas can be arranged for group bookings (at an additional cost).

Fitness ability requirement is moderate. The walk to the lighthouse and upper Gannet colonies is optional. Viewing the Gannets from the trailer deck is guaranteed with a compulsory stop at the Black Reef Colony on the beach.

For a location map, click here.


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