Awesome opportunity to observe a (smelly) gannet colony with a stunning backdrop.

Further information: Muriwai Gannet Colony is an Auckland must-visit. The park offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe up to 1,200 pairs of gannets living and breeding in their natural habitat. From August to March each year, it's wonderfully entertaining to watch as they come and go from the colony. Visitors have the opportunity to travel to Muriwai via car, just one hour away from Auckland centre. Once there, take the short walking track to get to an observation platform right above the main colony. It'll be like being an air traffic controller - the birds soaring and swooping with wingspans of two metres! Many return after a few years to secure a nest site at the colony, making the experience even more fascinating. With breathtaking views from the colony, and loads of surprises waiting down at Muriwai Beach, visitors will want to stay longer.