Description
Cape Kidnappers Gannets & Private Wine Tours
Experience two of Hawke's Bay's most iconic attractions — the world-famous Cape Kidnappers gannet colony and the region's celebrated wine country — with a personal, locally guided tour.
An Iconic Hawke's Bay Experience
Cape Kidnappers Gannets & Private Wine Tours offers visitors a chance to experience the very best of what makes Hawke's Bay special. From the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of Australasian gannets nesting at Cape Kidnappers — one of the largest and most accessible mainland gannet colonies in the world — to the sun-drenched vineyards and cellar doors that have made the region New Zealand's premier wine destination, these guided tours combine natural wonder with culinary excellence in a single unforgettable day.
Tour Experiences
Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony
The gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers is one of Napier's must-see attractions. Between September and April, up to 20,000 gannets gather on the dramatic cliff-top plateaus at the southern end of Hawke's Bay. Your guide takes you along the stunning coastal route, sharing knowledge about the birds' remarkable lifecycle, the geology of the dramatic coastal landscape, and the history of the cape — named by Captain James Cook in 1769. The experience is awe-inspiring: thousands of gannets wheeling overhead, performing their elaborate greeting displays, and diving into the sea for fish.
Private Wine Tours
Hawke's Bay is New Zealand's oldest and second-largest wine region, home to over 70 wineries producing world-class Syrah, Chardonnay, Cabernet blends, and more. Private wine tours are tailored to your preferences — whether you want to explore the established icons like Mission Estate, Craggy Range, and Te Mata, or discover smaller boutique producers off the beaten track. Your guide handles the driving and logistics, so you can focus on tasting, learning, and enjoying the region's gorgeous vineyard landscapes.
Combined Experiences
For visitors wanting the complete Hawke's Bay experience, combined tours pair a morning at the gannet colony with an afternoon of wine tasting. It's an ideal way to make the most of a day in the region, covering both the natural and culinary highlights with expert local guidance throughout.
Why Choose This Tour
What makes this operator stand out is the personal, private nature of the experience. Rather than joining a large group tour, you get a bespoke itinerary designed around your interests, pace, and schedule. The local knowledge runs deep — your guide knows the best vantage points at the colony, the quietest times to visit, and which cellar doors offer the warmest welcome and the best wines. It's the difference between ticking off a tourist attraction and having a genuine, memorable experience.
Practical Information
Tours operate from Napier and can pick up from your accommodation. The gannet colony is accessible from September through to late April (breeding season), with peak viewing from November to February. Wine tours run year-round. Private tours can be arranged for couples, families, or small groups. Bookings are essential — contact directly by phone to discuss your ideal itinerary.
Get in Touch
- Phone: +64 27 607 2396
- Location: Tours depart from Napier (pickup by arrangement)
