Profile
Gannet Safaris Overland provides immersive wildlife and conservation-focused tours into Cape Kidnappers Station—a private nature reserve in Hawke’s Bay, home to one of the world’s largest and most accessible mainland gannet colonies. Running overland for more than 50 years, the safari takes visitors right to within a few feet of the gannets—all without any walking required.
Departing from Te Awanga, students travel in comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles across coastal pastures, native bush, riverbeds, and steep gullies to reach a cliff-top viewpoint overlooking the gannet plateau. Along the way, guides share stories of local Māori legends, conservation efforts, geology, farming, and the unique ecology of the area.
Tours can be tailored for school groups, focusing on themes such as local history, indigenous knowledge, geology, wildlife conservation, and the natural world of the gannets. The safari accommodates up to 100 students and caregivers per trip, with RAMS and documentation provided on booking. Buses seat 21 passengers each, and schools are asked to provide refreshments for students while adults are served tea and coffee.
Gannet Safaris operates a variety of tour formats—including regular, sunrise, private, cruise-ship, and school-specific educational tours—running throughout the season from early September to late April.
With exceptional access to wildlife, rich educational content, comfortable transport, and expert guiding, Gannet Safaris offers schools a compelling blend of conservation, biology, cultural storytelling, and outdoor adventure—all served up in the spectacular coastal setting of Cape Kidnappers.
