Cape Kidnappers Gannet Reserve
Hawke's Bay
Cape Kidnappers, officially known as Cape Kidnappers / Te Kauwae-a-Māui, is a striking headland located at the southern edge of Hawke Bay on New Zealand's North Island. This 8-kilometre peninsula extends into the Pacific Ocean and features cliffs composed of sandstone, conglomerate, mudstone, and pumice. The cape hosts the world's largest and most accessible mainland breeding colony of Australasian gannets, with over 6,500 breeding pairs. Visitors can approach the colony by walking along the beach from Clifton or via inland roads, although access is subject to tidal conditions and seasonal restrictions to protect the birds. The surrounding landscape includes working farms and a predator-proof fence established in 2007 to safeguard the native bird population from invasive species. The area is not only significant for its natural wildlife but also for its dramatic coastal scenery and geological features, including landslide-prone cliffs. The cape's Māori name, Te Kauwae-a-Māui, references a local legend about the demigod Māui fishing up the North Island, symbolizing the cultural heritage of the area. The site offers a unique blend of ecological importance, cultural history, and scenic beauty, making it a compelling destination for nature lovers and those interested in New Zealand's indigenous heritage.
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Tip: Visitors aiming to walk to the gannet colony should plan their trip around low tide for safe beach access and check tide timetables carefully. The track to the colony is closed annually from July until just before Labour Weekend to protect nesting birds. Guided tours and transport options are available from Clifton for those who prefer not to walk. Wearing sturdy footwear is recommended due to steep, muddy, and slippery sections on the inland track. Be aware of the risk of landslides and rockfalls along the beach route, and avoid visiting during high tide or rough seas.
Interesting facts
- •Cape Kidnappers hosts the largest and most accessible mainland Australasian gannet colony in the world, with over 6,500 breeding pairs.
- •The predator-proof fence built in 2007 effectively protects the gannet colony from invasive species such as stoats, ferrets, and feral cats.
- •The name Te Kauwae-a-Māui means 'the fish hook of Māui', referencing a Māori legend about the demigod Māui fishing up the North Island.
- •A significant landslide in 2019 caused the closure of the beach track and suspension of tractor-pulled passenger tours that had operated for over 70 years.
- •The gannet nesting season runs from mid-September to mid-December, with juvenile birds remaining until May before migrating to Australia.
History
The name Cape Kidnappers originates from an incident during Captain Cook's 1769 voyage when local Māori attempted to abduct a crew member, Taiata, the servant of the Tahitian guide Tupaia.
The attempt was thwarted, and the event led Cook to name the headland accordingly.
The Māori perspective recounts a rescue party trying to free what they believed was a captive boy aboard the ship.
The cape's official dual name, adopted after the 2018 Heretaunga Tamatea Claims Settlement Act, acknowledges both the European and Māori heritage.
The area has long been recognized for its ecological significance, with conservation efforts including the construction of a predator-proof fence in 2007 to protect the native gannet colony from introduced predators.
Place Guide
Black Reef Colony
The first gannet nesting site located about 7.5 km from Clifton along the beach. It marks the beginning of the accessible gannet colonies on the cape.
Plateau Gannet Colony
Situated on a benched area on the hill above the beach, this colony is reached after a steep 1 km climb. It hosts the majority of the breeding gannets and offers excellent viewing opportunities.
