Bird lovers love Cape Kidnappers because it contains the most accessible mainland gannet colony in the world. Gannets (members of the booby family) are usually island breeders but have made an exception at Cape Kidnappers.

Adult Australasian gannets have a wing span of up to two metres and a weigh around two kilograms. Whilst ungainly on land, gannets are graceful in flight and spectacular when diving into the sea to catch fish.

To walk to the Cape, leave you car at Clifton (21km south of Napier). The dramatic 8km walk takes about two hours and, as it follows the base of spectacular stratified cliffs, should be undertaken at low tide. The sea and wind have carved interesting shapes out of the soft sands and shingles of the cliffs.

Alternatives to walking to the Cape include 4WD and tractor safaris. Gerard can advise.

The best time to visit is from November (hatching) until February. Guided tours from October until April.