Muriwai Gannet Colony Auckland Private Tour
The cliffside gannet colony and black sand at Muriwai Beach, Auckland.
The Muriwai gannet colony Auckland experience is a great choice for visitors wanting to see New Zealand wildlife in a spectacular coastal setting. At Muriwai Beach on Auckland’s wild west coast, you can walk out towards Ōtakamiro Point and view large numbers of Australasian gannets nesting on the cliffs above the Tasman Sea.
Great North Tours can arrange a private trip to the Muriwai gannet bird colony, with transport from Auckland and an itinerary planned around your group. It is an easy way to include one of Auckland’s most memorable natural attractions without having to organise the driving or route yourself.
The gannet colony is particularly interesting during the nesting season, when the birds return to breed and raise their chicks. Viewing areas provide a close look at the colony while allowing visitors to enjoy the surrounding coastal landscape.
Your Muriwai tour from Auckland can also include Muriwai Beach, west coast scenery, local food stops or other Auckland attractions depending on your interests.
Whether you are a keen birdwatcher, photographer, nature lover or simply looking for something different to do near Auckland, we can build a private Muriwai gannet colony tour around your day.
Muriwai Gannet Colony: FAQs
What time of year are gannets at Muriwai?
Australasian gannets breed at Muriwai from around August through March. The colony is particularly interesting during the breeding season when birds are nesting and raising their chicks.
Is the Muriwai gannet colony open?
Access to the Muriwai gannet viewing area can change, so it is best to check the latest local information before travelling. Great North Tours can also help plan your visit around current access conditions.
Can you walk to the Muriwai gannet colony?
Yes. The Muriwai gannet colony can be viewed via the walking access to Ōtakamiro Point. The viewing area is close to the colony and provides a good opportunity to see the birds without entering their nesting area.
Where is the largest gannet colony in New Zealand?
New Zealand has several important Australasian gannet colonies. Muriwai is one of the country's best-known mainland viewing locations, with more than 1,000 pairs breeding there each year.
Is the Muriwai gannet colony worth visiting?
Muriwai is a memorable choice for wildlife lovers, photographers and visitors who enjoy coastal scenery. The gannets can be viewed from platforms close to the colony, with the rugged west coast providing a spectacular setting.
Where is the Muriwai gannet colony?
The colony is at Ōtakamiro Point near Muriwai Beach on Auckland's west coast, approximately an hour's drive from central Auckland depending on traffic.
How do I get to Muriwai gannet colony from Auckland?
Muriwai is reached by road from Auckland through the city's north-western suburbs towards the west coast. A private tour provides direct transport and makes it easy to combine the gannet colony with other Auckland attractions.
What can I see at Muriwai gannet colony?
You can see large numbers of Australasian gannets nesting on the coastal cliffs, as well as the dramatic west coast scenery around Muriwai Beach and Ōtakamiro Point.
Is Muriwai gannet colony good for photography?
Yes. The viewing platforms provide opportunities to photograph the birds, nesting activity and surrounding coastal landscape. A private itinerary can also allow extra time for photography if that is an interest of your group.
Are there other things to do at Muriwai?
Yes. Muriwai Beach and the surrounding west coast offer dramatic coastal scenery, walking opportunities and other places to explore. Your private tour can include additional stops depending on your available time.
Can I visit Muriwai gannet colony as part of a private Auckland tour?
Yes. Great North Tours can include the Muriwai gannet colony in a private Auckland itinerary, with transport arranged around your group and other sightseeing added to the day.
Can Great North Tours arrange a Muriwai gannet colony tour?
Yes. We can arrange private transport to Muriwai and build the gannet colony visit around your interests, whether you are interested in wildlife, photography, beaches or exploring Auckland's west coast.