Muriwai Gannet Colony
Tฤkapu
Wheelchair accessible
One of New Zealand's few mainland gannet breeding colonies, located on the west coast, offering spectacular views of these large seabirds.

๐Ÿ“œ A windswept rugged coastline showcases spectacular black sand surf beaches.
๐Ÿ” Home to thousands of Tฤkapu (Australasian gannets) who gather to breed on coastal platforms.

Why Go

๐ŸŒŠ View thousands of Australasian gannets (Tฤkapu) in their natural breeding colony.
๐Ÿšถ Explore trails through native bush with stunning views of the beach and colony.
๐Ÿ„ Enjoy surfing at Muriwai Beach and Maukatia / Mฤori Bay.
๐Ÿ–๏ธ Experience spectacular black sand surf beaches.

Why Avoid

โš ๏ธ Dangerous surf, swim only between patrolled flags.
๐Ÿ• Dogs prohibited in many areas, including the gannet colony.
๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ Winds can be very strong.

Tips

๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Best time to visit gannets is between October and February.
๐Ÿš— Beach driving requires a permit and 4WD.
๐Ÿงน Clean footwear to prevent kauri dieback spread.

Hours

๐Ÿ•’ Daily, 6am-9pm in summer, 6am-7:30pm in winter.

๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธ Parking

Approximately 360 spaces, additional parking at Village Green and Five Mile Strip.

๐Ÿšป Toilets

Three blocks with 16 toilets, wheelchair accessible.

๐Ÿ” BBQ

Electric BBQs provided, or bring your own gas BBQ.

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