Cape Kidnappers: Gannet Colony 4WD Tour & Plateau Access

Summary

Up close with Cape Kidnappers gannets and wild Hawke’s Bay cliffs

You’ll ride over private farmland by 4WD minivan to reach Cape Kidnappers’ gannet colony plateau, getting within meters of these wild seabirds with no hiking needed. Enjoy sweeping Hawke’s Bay views, learn from your local guide, and sip tea or coffee right beside the colony — an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so small up there — not in a bad way, just sort of awed by all that space and sky. Our guide, Dave (who knew every bump in the farm road), drove us up through Cape Kidnappers Station in this sturdy minivan. It rattled a bit but honestly, I liked that — made it feel less like a theme park ride and more like you’re actually crossing someone’s land. The air smelled faintly salty, and sheep wandered off as we passed.

We stopped at a lookout where Hawke’s Bay just stretched forever, blue and green and then those wild cliffs dropping down to Clifton Beach. I tried to take a photo but it never really catches how windy it is up there — my hair was everywhere, which made Li laugh. Then suddenly we were on the plateau, only meters from the gannet colony. Hundreds of birds, all squawking and swooping; their white wings catch the sun so sharply it almost hurts your eyes if you stare too long. I remember the weird mix of fishy air and fresh grass — not unpleasant, just… real.

Dave poured us tea (proper mugs, not paper cups) while he explained how these gannets migrate thousands of kilometers every year. He pointed out one bird with a blue ring on its leg — apparently tracked since it was a chick. I tried to say “tākapu” (the Māori name) but probably butchered it; Dave grinned anyway. We didn’t walk much at all — just stepped out onto the plateau — which was good because my knees aren’t what they used to be. The drive back felt quieter somehow; maybe everyone else was thinking about those birds too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Gannet Safari and Scenic Views

• Drive over private Cape Kidnappers farm
• Stop at lookout points with 360° views
• View cliffs and Clifton Beach
• Arrive at Cape Kidnappers gannet plateau
• Watch gannets dive and swoop
• Enjoy tea and coffee

Top questions

How close do you get to the gannets on this tour?

You’ll be within meters of the Cape Kidnappers gannet colony on the plateau during the tour.

Is any walking required on this day trip to Cape Kidnappers?

No walking is required; transport takes you directly onto the plateau near the birds.

Does this tour include pickup or transport?

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan over private farmland to Cape Kidnappers.

Are drinks or refreshments provided during the tour?

Yes, tea and coffee are served while at the gannet colony plateau.

Can infants or people with limited mobility join?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller and all fitness levels are suitable for this tour.

Are cruise ship passengers allowed to book this tour?

No, cruise ship passengers must book a specific version via the operator’s website.

How long does this guided tour last?

The fully guided tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable transport by air-conditioned minivan across Cape Kidnappers Station’s private farmland straight onto the gannet plateau (no hiking needed), plus tea or coffee served right beside the colony before heading back down through those windswept Hawke’s Bay views.