Its just a short climb from the beach to the viewing point for the gannets. You'll know when you're near as the smell is quite pungent and the noise from all the hungry chicks. The view points are well placed to get a great view of the colony.
Always worth a visit.We took some overseas friends there on SaturdayMarvellous scenery the roaring waves the graceful swooping Gannetts.See the newborn down covered Gannett chicks with their mothers in attendance.A shortish walk with some steps but suitable for most visitors.Breathtaking views.You can look along towards Muriwai Beach and spot the surfers trying to catch waves.See the power of the Tasman Sea breaking against the rocks.Recommended.
Huge gannet colonies overlooking beautiful black sand beaches. Well worth a drive. Local signs can be a bit difficult to follow to find the location.
New Zealand is really a haven! It has a lot of nice tracks for those who enjoy nice walk and hiking.The greatest attraction at Muriwai Beach is the Gannet Colony. From August to March each year you can watch the busy comings and goings of the gannets.Enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of nature.
This is a hidden gem. Like visiting a David Attenborough documentary for real :-O We were thrilled to see the gannets with their big fluffy chicks so close. The sounds were amazing (the smell not so great) but WOW!!!!! Amazing views and really worth the hike up the hill. Don't forget your camera.
An unusual opportunity to see nesting (and flying and feeding) gannets. Seriously majestic birds, it's worth visiting whether you're particularly into birds or not, you can't fail to be impressed, and Muriwai beach is just spectacular.
Very accessible view of the large gannet colony and during the correct time of the year you will see them nesting with chicks which was great. The walk around the various colonies was good and if you go at high tide you will see the impressive blowhole in action. Great views over the surrounding cliffs. The signposting is a bit iffy from the lower car park, so best to park at the top rather than the beach. Worth a visit when in the area.
We visited during the new year holiday. The weather was perfect though a little windy. It was amazing to see these beautiful creatures up close. They are so elegant in the air. The chicks are adorable in their down, each staying with their parents (although some of them are almost as big as the adults). The adults take turn feeding the babies. Wonderful nature!The beach is beautiful and expansive. We finished the walk at the ice cream shop- made it more perfect.Would do it again.
Just loved the gannets here and your proximity to them which is so unusual ......I thought it was awesome watching the chicks opening their wings and finding their feet. A really beautiful spot to watch birds , the surfers and have a nice cup of coffee. The staff in the visitors centre were really helpful too.
This is an exciting place to watch the nesting gannets, and see dramatic cliffs, rocks, waves and a blow hole. It is especially fun for photographers. We came on a stormy day at high tide, and there was drama wherever we looked!