Muriwai is the home of Auckland's mainland gannet colony — over 1,200 pairs of Australasian gannets that nest on a rocky headland (Ōtakamiro Point) between Muriwai Beach and Maukatia (Māori Bay), packed so densely that the rocks appear white from a distance. The colony is one of only three mainland gannet colonies in the world (the others at Cape Kidnappers and Farewell Spit), and viewing platforms get within 2 metres of the birds, allowing extraordinary close-up observation of courtship, nest-building, and fledging.
The birds arrive in August and leave for Australia in February, with peak viewing November-January when the chicks are growing. The adjacent Muriwai Beach is a 60-kilometre black-sand beach — one of the longest drivable beaches in New Zealand, with 4WD access along much of its length. Muriwai is also a famous hang-gliding and paragliding site, with launches off the same cliffs above the gannet colony. The 40-minute drive from Auckland passes through the wine country of Kumeu.
Verified Facts
Muriwai hosts over 1,200 pairs of gannets
It is one of only three mainland gannet colonies in the world
Gannets arrive in August and leave in February
Muriwai Beach is about 60 kilometres long
Get walking directions
Muriwai Beach, Rodney
