Muriwai Gannet Colony Private Half Day Wildlife Tour

Auckland , New Zealand

Muriwai Gannet Colony Private Half Day Wildlife Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover one of New Zealand’s most significant wildlife sites on this private half-day journey to the Muriwai Gannet Colony. Along this exposed stretch of coastline, thousands of Australasian gannets return each year to breed at the world’s only mainland colony. From close viewing points, observe daily life within the colony as adults tend their nests, feed their chicks, and launch themselves into strong Tasman Sea winds.

Travelling west, the scale of the landscape becomes clear. From Arataki Visitor Centre, broad views span rainforest and coastline before the road drops toward the open ocean. At Muriwai, black-sand beaches, exposed headlands, and relentless surf reveal a coast shaped by powerful natural forces.

With a measured pace and informed local insight, this private half-day tour focuses on observation and understanding, offering a deeper appreciation of the wildlife and natural systems that define Auckland’s west coast.

Available options

Muriwai Gannet Colony Private Half Day Wildlife Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Close-up viewing of the Australasian gannet breeding colony at Muriwai

Bottled water

Time to walk the iconic Muriwai black-sand beach with your guide and learn about its origins

Visit Arataki Visitor Centre — A chance to enjoy the views and explore the...

Travel in comfort with your personal guide in a modern, air-conditioned SUV vehicle.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

At Arataki Visitor Centre, guests step into the entranceway of the Waitākere Ranges, surrounded by sweeping views of native forest, reservoirs, and the Tasman coastline. During our 30-minute stop, there’s time to walk out onto the viewing decks, take photographs from the iconic carved frame overlooking the ranges, and enjoy the sense of space and calm that this landscape creates.

Inside the centre, visitors can explore displays that share the geology, ecology, and cultural significance of the area, including artworks and stories connected to mana whenua. It’s a gentle introduction to the region, helping guests understand the environment they’ll be travelling through on the rest of the tour.

The centre also has clean bathroom facilities, making it a comfortable and convenient stop before we continue toward the coastline and Piha.

Stop 2

At the Muriwai Gannet Colony, follow clifftop walkways offering close-up views of thousands of Australasian gannets (takapu) at their nesting site — the world’s only mainland breeding colony of this species.

Watch as adults tend their nests, feed chicks, and launch themselves into the coastal winds before heading out over the Tasman Sea. These viewpoints allow for detailed observation of gannet behaviour and movement, often just metres away.

Beyond the colony, experience Muriwai’s dramatic west coast setting, with sweeping ocean views, rugged headlands, and wide black-sand beaches shaped by the power of the Tasman Sea. There is time for photography, short walks, and simply taking in the scale and energy of this unique coastal environment.

What's not included

Child car seat (must be provided by parents/guardians for all children under 7)

Airport pick ups or drop-offs are not included in this tour.

Personal expenses — Any purchases made during the tour are not included.

Meals, snacks, and beverages are not included unless specifically mentioned.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children are welcome on tour. New Zealand law requires an approved child restraint for all children under. Parents/guardians must bring their own child seat. We do not carry spare seats.

Travellers must be able to safely enter and exit a standard vehicle without assistance.

Important notes

Please present your mobile ticket to your guide at pickup.

About Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Auckland Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump

Auckland War Memorial Museum

This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.

Nature Full day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Adventure Half day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.

Family 2-3 hours NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hāngī

A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.

Dinner Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Gluten-free, can be made vegan

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Skydiving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Maori cultural performances Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center

By train

Auckland Railway Station

By bus

Auckland Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Ponsonby Devonport Mission Bay

Day trips

Waiheke Island

35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Rangitoto Island

25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Hobbiton Movie Set

2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Festivals

Auckland Arts Festival • March Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November Auckland Pride Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.