Hawke’s Bay’s exciting safari

This is a three-hour guided safari experience in a comfortable 4WD vehicle to see the huge nesting colony of gannets near the end of the Cape Kidnappers promontory.

You are driven out from the base at Te Awanga, along the coast, over farmland and through bush, and then into a privately owned nature reserve right up to the edge of the colony, located at the very tip of the peninsula where a finger of rock points out into the Pacific.

Why go?

Because this is one of only three sites in the country where gannets nest on the mainland – and it’s arguably the most dramatic and spectacular one. Around 20,000 birds, with 2-metre wingspans, gather here from spring for the most important part of their year. You’ll see them arrowing into the sea for fish and flying overhead to land near their neatly spaced nests. Depending on the month, they’ll be fighting noisily over territory, prancing and preening in mating displays, waiting for eggs to hatch, or feeding their voracious offspring.

En route, you’ll learn all about the farm you’re driving over, local history and geology, conservation efforts, Ma¯ori culture and legends, and the gannets. There are photo stops and refreshments are included. The drive itself is exciting, as you bounce along off-track, through creeks and ravines – and even quite close to the edge of those 100-metre-high cliffs.

Insider tip

If you want to experience the colony in the most photogenically beautiful way, consider the company’s private tour in a Range Rover out to see the gannets as the sun rises from the ocean and then enjoy a hot drink with a continental breakfast in these magnificent surroundings.

On the way/nearby

The many delights of Napier and Hastings are within easy reach: Art Deco architecture, vineyards, Splash Planet and shops; or get on top of it all at the 399-metre summit of Te Mata Peak. There are beaches and rivers to enjoy, plus walks and cycle routes. Or consider treating yourself to a stay at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers: luxurious suites, a golf course with distracting views, an excellent restaurant and farm and nature tours.

How much?

Adults $88, children (5-16) $44. There is a shuttle service from Napier, Hastings and Havelock North, for a fee. Tours run twice daily from September to April.

Best time to go

The birds start courting, then nesting, in spring, and you’ll see chicks in the nests from around mid-November until they fledge about four months later. gannetsafaris.co.nz

Reader offer

Readers Tours offers adventurous seniors the opportunity to explore their own backyard and experience some of New Zealand’s hidden gems via train, ferry and luxury coach. As a special Deal of the Week promotion, we are offering $150 off all tours booked before January 30, 2020. Contact the Readers team on 0800 080 099 or visit readersrailtours.co.nz