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All Auckland, New Zealand excursions
Private Tour of Auckland's Gannet Colony - Above the black sand
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ViatorShore Excursion

Private Tour of Auckland's Gannet Colony - Above the black sand

4 hoursEnglish guide
From / guest
$198USD · taxes incl.
// what to expect

Discover one of New Zealand's most spectacular seasonal wildlife experiences on this private half-day journey to Auckland's Gannet Colony. From September to March, thousands of Australasian gannets return to Auckland's rugged west coast to breed, creating one of the country's most impressive wildlife spectacles. Travel through the Waitākere Ranges, stopping at Arataki Visitor Centre for panoramic views before continuing to Muriwai Beach & the nearby clifftop viewing platforms overlooking the colony. Watch thousands of gannets nesting, raising their young and soaring on the powerful Tasman Sea winds while learning about their fascinating breeding cycle. From returning adults and nest building in September to fluffy chicks, growing juveniles and fledglings taking their first flights, every stage of the season offers something unique. With dramatic black-sand beaches, rugged coastline and extraordinary wildlife, this private tour showcases Auckland's wild west coast at its very best.

Private Sightseeing ToursNature and Wildlife ToursShore ExcursionsPrivate and LuxuryHalf-day ToursBus ToursShort term availabilityWeather Dependent - ModerateConditional Booking QuestionsPorts of Call ToursPort Pickup
// good to know
Duration
4 hours
Operated by
Viator
// Auckland, New Zealand information
// the details
Enjoy a cup of locally sourced kawakawa tea sweetened with native New Zealand honey.
Visit Arataki Visitor Centre — A chance to enjoy panoramic views of the Waitākere regional park
Bottled water
Time to walk the iconic Muriwai black-sand beach
Observe the Australasian gannet breeding colony at Muriwai
Please let us know if you are travelling with children under 7 years of age so we can provide a suitable safety seat. We will need the age, height and weight of each child under 7.
Travel in comfort with your personal guide in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz V-Class minivan
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.
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please let us know if you are travelling with children under 7 years of age so we can provide a suitable safety seat. We will need the age, height and weight of each child under 7.
  • Travellers must be able to safely enter and exit a standard vehicle without assistance.
4 hours

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

// operating schedule
Operates
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Departure times
8:00 AM · 9:00 AM · 1:00 PM
Ready to book Private Tour of Auckland's Gannet Colony - Above the black sand?
From $198 USD per guest
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