Muriwai Gannet Colony Auckland
Witness thousands of nesting gannets on dramatic cliffs overlooking the wild Tasman Sea, complemented by black sand beaches and stunning sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gannet nesting season
Muriwai Gannet Colony Auckland
Best Time
Gannet nesting season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness thousands of nesting gannets on dramatic cliffs overlooking the wild Tasman Sea, complemented by black sand beaches and stunning sunsets.
"Thousands of gannets nest right on the cliffs, with stunning ocean views all around. Perfect place for a peaceful walk."
Check Track Status First
Tracks can close due to weather. Verify access to the gannet colony before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Prepare for the Smell!
The gannet colony has a strong, distinctive smell. Be prepared for it, especially up close. :nose:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thousands of Nesting Gannets
Cliffs overlooking the Tasman Sea
Witness a spectacular display of nature as thousands of gannets nest and raise their young on the dramatic cliffs.
Black Sand Beach & Wild Waves
Muriwai Beach
Experience the raw beauty of a black sand beach with powerful Tasman Sea waves crashing ashore.
Spectacular West Coast Sunsets
Muriwai Lookout
Be mesmerized by breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the Tasman Sea, a perfect end to the day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Track Closures & Access
Best Time for Gannets & Sunsets
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Track Status First
Tracks can close due to weather. Verify access to the gannet colony before your visit. +1 :informationdeskperson:
Prepare for the Smell!
The gannet colony has a strong, distinctive smell. Be prepared for it, especially up close. :nose:
Windy Conditions Expected
The west coast is known for wind. Bring layers and a hat, especially for sunset viewing. :windblowingface:
Pack Snacks & Drinks
Limited food options nearby. Bring your own kai for a picnic or to enjoy while watching the birds. :apple:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Track Status First
Tracks can close due to weather. Verify access to the gannet colony before your visit. +1 :informationdeskperson:
Prepare for the Smell!
The gannet colony has a strong, distinctive smell. Be prepared for it, especially up close. :nose:
Windy Conditions Expected
The west coast is known for wind. Bring layers and a hat, especially for sunset viewing. :windblowingface:
Pack Snacks & Drinks
Limited food options nearby. Bring your own kai for a picnic or to enjoy while watching the birds. :apple:
Arrive Early for Parking
Popular spot, especially for sunset. Arrive early to secure a parking space. :car:
Respect Wildlife Rules
No dogs allowed to protect the gannets and their ecosystem. :dog2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible spectacle of thousands of gannets nesting on the cliffs, offering a unique wildlife encounter. The stunning black sand beaches and breathtaking west coast sunsets are also major draws. While the strong smell and occasional track closures are noted, the overall experience is described as peaceful, beautiful, and otherworldly.
"The gannet colony is incredible to see up close. Thousands of gannet birds nest right on the cliffs, with stunning ocean views all around. Perfect place for a peaceful walk, photography, or just soaking in nature’s magic."
Sreelekshmi M S
"Its a very beautiful and peaceful place to go for a nice day trip from Auckland.
The walking trail is short so not much to walk.
Plus the views are amazing...
And you can park your car and watch the beach while sitting in the car thats the best part."
Pinanki Gopal
"It’s beautiful!! Nothing more wonderful than seeing animals in the wild 💗
*I’m shocked by the lack of culture from some people. There are clean, well-maintained public bathrooms in the parking areas, yet we still saw a pair of friends urinating right in the middle of the trail… unacceptable. Dogs are NOT allowed because they are potential predators of birds and because they leave their scent wherever they go, which can disrupt the ecosystem.
If you can’t control your bladder, you should wear diapers and above all, if you can’t respect the rules of a national park, stay home."
Paloma Valentina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Muriwai Gannet Colony is about a 40-minute to 1-hour drive from Auckland CBD. Driving is the most convenient option. Carpooling or making friends with a car owner are also suggested.
Public transport to Muriwai Gannet Colony is very limited and not straightforward. Buses can take you to nearby towns like Kumeu or Waimauku, but you'll likely need to arrange further transport, such as hitchhiking or a taxi, for the final leg. It's generally recommended to have a car for easier access.
Yes, driving is the easiest way to reach the Muriwai Gannet Colony. There is a spacious car park available, which is convenient for visitors.
The drive to Muriwai from Auckland is scenic but involves winding roads. Ensure you have a full tank of gas before you leave.
Cyclone damage has caused temporary track closures in the past. It's crucial to check the latest updates from Auckland Council regarding access to the gannet colony viewing areas before your visit. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Muriwai Gannet Colony is free of charge.
The Muriwai Gannet Colony is an open natural habitat and does not have set opening hours. However, access to specific viewing tracks may be restricted due to maintenance or weather. +1
No booking is required as entry to the Muriwai Gannet Colony is free and open to the public.
The gannets are typically present and nesting from August through to March each year.
Dogs are not allowed at the Muriwai Gannet Colony to protect the birds and their environment. Visitors are also asked to respect the wildlife and stay on designated paths.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon is ideal for photography, as you can capture both the gannets and the stunning west coast sunsets.
A telephoto lens is recommended to get close-up shots of the gannets from the viewing platforms. Even a phone camera can capture great shots, especially with stabilization.
Absolutely! Muriwai Beach offers dramatic black sand, powerful waves, and expansive ocean views, making it a fantastic spot for landscape photography. +1
Yes, you can park your car and enjoy the views, and some visitors find this a comfortable way to observe and photograph the beach and surrounding scenery.
Be mindful of the strong smell of guano and the windy conditions. Protect your camera gear from sand and sea spray.
🎫 🌿 Nature & Wildlife
Muriwai is famous for its large colony of Australasian gannets. You'll see thousands of these impressive seabirds nesting on the cliffs.
The gannets migrate from Australia to Muriwai to nest from August to March. They then return to Australia.
Yes, the gannet colony can be quite noisy with the sounds of thousands of birds.
Muriwai is a coastal ecosystem with black sand beaches and cliffs that support the gannet colony. The smell of guano is a natural part of the environment.
Muriwai offers a unique and accessible opportunity to see a large seabird colony in its natural habitat, making it a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Auckland.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at the Muriwai Gannet Colony are limited. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks or explore options in nearby Kumeu or Waimauku.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. The spacious car park allows you to enjoy the views from your vehicle, or you can find a spot to set up.
Nearby towns like Kumeu offer cafes and eateries. Some visitors suggest strawberry picking and ice cream in the area as well.
Given the limited dining facilities, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended for a more enjoyable and convenient visit.
Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks and meals. This allows you to eat at your own pace and enjoy the scenery without worrying about finding open restaurants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The short, accessible walking paths make it manageable for little legs, and the car park offers a comfortable viewing option if needed. Consider visiting during the day to avoid the peak sunset crowds. The sight of fluffy baby gannets being cared for by their parents is particularly engaging for younger visitors.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Auckland
The journey itself is scenic, and the colony provides a unique wildlife experience that's easily accessible. Plan to spend a few hours here, perhaps combining it with a visit to the black sand beach or enjoying the sunset. To make the most of your day trip, pack a picnic and drinks, as amenities are limited.
💑 Couples Seeking a Scenic Date
A late afternoon visit is perfect for enjoying the gannets and then watching a spectacular west coast sunset together. While the colony itself can be a bit pungent and windy, you can find sheltered spots or enjoy the views from your car.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Muriwai's Tracks and Trails
Even when tracks are open, the terrain can be uneven, and the proximity to the sea means conditions can change rapidly. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially muddy or slippery surfaces.
The experience of walking amongst the gannets, even with temporary access limitations, is described as awe-inspiring.
+1 The sheer number of birds and their activity create a unique spectacle. Remember that respecting the designated paths is crucial for both your safety and the preservation of the delicate gannet habitat. The Gannet Colony: A Natural Spectacle
From August to March, the dramatic cliffs transform into a bustling nursery as the birds arrive from Australia to nest, lay eggs, and raise their young. +1 The peak season for observing chicks and fledglings learning to fly is typically between October and February. Visitors can expect a vibrant, albeit pungent, experience. The air is filled with the calls of the birds and the distinct smell of guano, a natural byproduct of such a dense population.
+1It's important to remember that these are wild animals. While the colony is visitor-friendly, maintaining a respectful distance and adhering to all park rules, such as keeping dogs leashed or prohibited, is vital for the birds' well-being and the integrity of their ecosystem.
Capturing Muriwai's Beauty: Photography and Sunsets
For wildlife photography, a telephoto lens is highly recommended to capture the intricate details of the gannets on the cliffs.
The Muriwai Gannet Colony is also renowned for its spectacular west coast sunsets.
As the sun dips below the horizon, it paints the sky with vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the ocean and the gannet cliffs. Arriving in the late afternoon allows you to experience both the gannets and the breathtaking sunset, creating a truly magical end to your visit. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit