19 Nov 2023

Away with the birds in Napier – immersed in Gannet colonies

Departing Heritage Adventurer, we boarded busses in Napier to travel down the Norfolk Island Pine-lined main road, and through the country roads toward the Cape Kidnappers Sanctuary. This sanctuary is New Zealand's largest privately owned and funded 'mainland island' conservation project. The road and farm track were truly remarkable for the steepness of the terrain covered - but our drivers handled it with ease.

The endpoint was certainly worth the journey. On the edge of steep cliffs and overlooking the Pinnacles in the sea, are four separate Gannet colonies. We were able to stand right next to the Plateau Colony with thousands of nesting pairs. Some birds were only one metre from us, and the whole colony was easily viewed without binoculars. It was a spectacular view! The place was abuzz with the activity of eggs being incubated, chicks appearing from under the wings of adults, courtship displays, and a constant swarm of take-offs and landings. The approaching birds circled the colony before passing almost within touching distance overhead. They are such beautiful, acrobatic birds that seeing them this closely and in this state of activity was truly unforgettable.

After witnessing this incredible display, we returned to the coaches to make the return journey to our home away from home - sad to say farewell to these beautiful birds. Following this spectacular experience, we enjoyed a light luncheon, which included what could have been some of the largest and tastiest strawberries on Earth.

Images © R. Morris, Heritage Expeditions