Nestled on the West Coast of Auckland, Muriwai Gannet Colony is one of the country’s largest mainland gannet colonies. From August through to March, these large seabirds nest and raise their chicks on the cliffs. A short walk from the carpark takes you to viewing platforms overlooking the colony and allows you to get close to the birds.

It’s a beautiful location to watch the sunset and a wildlife photographer’s dream to get so close to the beautiful seabirds. There are information boards that share interesting details about the gannets - did you know that they mate with the same partner for life?!

Visit the neighbouring Māori Bay or Muriwai Bay, explore the caves, or surf their popular waves.

Remember: Respect wildlife in their natural habitat. Do not feed or provoke the birds, leave a safe distance.

Personal tip: No one tells you this, but the colony is smelly! Don’t say I didn’t warn you! (The cute fluffy gannet chicks make up for it though…)

Pronunciation: Muriwai: moo-ree-wai

Māori: MAO-ree