About Gannet Safaris Overland
Gannet Safaris Overland has been providing gannet safaris (tours), guiding visitors over Cape Kidnappers for over 50 years. Our safaris are the only way to be driven right to within a few feet of these remarkable birds. There is absolutely no walking required. Read more about the gannets here.
Drive along the scenic coast from Napier to Te Awanga and join Gannet Safaris Overland to visit the worlds largest, most accessible gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers, New Zealand
You will travel in comfort in our air conditioned 4 x 4 vehicles, through Cape Kidnappers Station – traversing riverbeds, broad rolling pastures, through stands of native bush, steep gullies and breathtaking inclines. There is a stop on the way at a spectacular cliff top with panoramic views of Hawke Bay right across to the Mahia Peninsula. The amazing geology of the area can also be taken in. The 36km, three hour trip includes a commentary by your tour guide / driver on the farming operation on Cape Kidnappers Station, local Maori legend and an introduction to the gannets.
On arrival at the gannets you can stretch your legs if you like and take in the spectacular scenery 100 metres above the Pacific Ocean. Here your driver / guide will serve you light refreshments whilst you enjoy watching the gannets perform around you.
Our Safaris cater for individuals, small or large groups. The seating capacity is 100 at any time. Private exclusive tours are also available.
Tours you may like
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Regular Tours
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Private Tours
Private Tours
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Sunrise Tours
Sunrise Tours
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Shore Excursion Tours for Cruise Ships
Shore Excursion Tours for Cruise Ships
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“Beautiful day in a magical place. You have to see to believe. You can not missed this tour if you are in Hawke's Bay area”
Viator - February 2026
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This was one of the best tours we have been on. The guide was more than knowledgeable, he was truly an expert on the history of the area, the gannets, vineyards and his stories were great. The colony itself is so unusual, something I will not see elsewhere. I highly recommend this tour
”Trip Advisor - March 2026
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“Garth was a wonderful, friendly and informative guide for this amazing trip across the stunning Cape Kidnapper peninsula landscape to see the Gannet colony. These beautiful birds were an incredible sight to see, especially also with this being the largest and most closely accessible gannet colony in the Southern Hemisphere. The trip was done with amazing international fellow travellers and we feel is highly recommended as a trip to do for anyone visiting beautiful Hawke’s Bay.”
Trip Advisor - September 2025
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“The weather made a perfect show of Mother Nature. The stunning views of Cape Kidnappers coast, the fascinating Gannet colony, learning about their life cycle and how far they fly when they leave the nest which is mind boggling. It's a must do tour!”
Google Reviews - March 2026
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“Excellent experience that everyone should do at least once, tour guide was very knowledgeable and gave a good rundown of the history of the area and sanctuary that the tour drives through. It is a great privilege to be able to get so close to the birds on their nests and to see them flying in”
Google Reviews - March 2026
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“As a wildlife enthusiast I absolutely loved being driven up to this fabulous gannet colony. Our guide was very interesting and enthusiastic about the nature and conservation of the area. It was a very special experience which I will remember for ever. Thank you.”
Get Your Guide - February 2026
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“Wonderful 11/10!!!. We passed by the private farm, allowing us to see the true New Zealand farms. The view in the colony is just stunning, gannets choose well their place ! With a nice hot coffee makes this visit perfect! Of course we could get so close to the amazing beautiful Gannets ! ”
Viator - January 2026
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This tour was amazing! Could stay up there forever, just watching this beautiful birds in their natural habitat. Shoutout to our guide as well!!!
”Get Your Guide - March 2026
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“Visited Gannet colony in cape kidnappers. Guide was very knowledgeable, gave lots of information during the drive to the gannets. Beautiful scenery en route. Gannets were amazing, quite smelly! You are able to get very close to the birds, plenty of time given to enjoy the bird colony. An extra treat was the coffee and biscuits provided by the guides. Worth the money.”
Trip Advisor - March 2026
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“What a incredible adventurous journey to see the Gannets. Thousands in the colony did not disappoint; it was amazing. We were close to them and watched quite a while. Another group was off a cliff down below us. Dramatic scenery with the gannets was an adventure we'll never forget.”
Google Reviews - September 2025
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