Muriwai Gannet Colony is a wonderful place to watch flock of gannet birds in Muriwai beach in the wild west coast. It is surprising to view from the observation point hill to watch the gannets navigate the windy cliff landing and their mating. About 1,200 pairs of Australian gannets come to nestle on the cliffs in the breeding season from August to April every year.
Muriwai Gannet Colony is close to the city centre Auckland, it is just one hour drive. Following the car park, a short walking way leads to observation point right above the main colony area. The colony exists on two vertical sided islands near the sea. Visitors can watch these lovely white birds from a close range. White beautiful birds are sitting on black rock, Such a fantastic scene!
The young birds of 15 weeks can fly independently 280 kilometres to reach to Australian water alone. The gannet’s mortality rate is 70 to 80 percent. When the gannets get matured at the age of 2 to 3 years, they are covered by pearly white feathers. The matured gannets come back to their birth land in Muriwai beach to reproduce, thus continuing the gannet’s life cycle.