Muriwai is where Auckland’s west coast shows its wild side, and its gannet colony is one of the most accessible seabird colonies in the country. The tour takes about four hours and combines a visit to Muriwai Beach and the gannet colony on the cliffs at its southern end with a tasting at a wine estate in the countryside nearby. Australasian gannets nest here in large numbers during the breeding season, which runs through the warmer months, and observation platforms let you look down on the nests, the chicks and the birds wheeling in from the sea. The beach itself has dark volcanic sand and big Tasman Sea surf, and the combination of drama on the coast and a relaxed tasting inland makes this a well-judged half day. It is rated very highly by travellers, which reflects the way it packs a nature stop and a food and wine stop into a short, easy outing from the city.
What to expect
The visit to the colony is a short walk to viewpoints, so it is accessible for most visitors, though the paths can be steep or slippery in wet weather. The sound and smell of a gannet colony are part of the experience, and the birds are wild, so keep to the paths and follow the signs. Outside the breeding season, there are fewer birds on the nests, so check the timing if the gannets are your main reason for going.
The wine stop
The west and north-west of Auckland have a long wine-growing tradition, and the tasting gives you an introduction to the local styles. The tour providers handle the driving, which means you can enjoy the tasting without a designated driver. Guests must be of legal drinking age to taste, and there is normally a non-alcoholic option for those who prefer it, so check your booking.
Planning
Wear layers and windproof clothing, as Muriwai is exposed, and bring sunscreen and a hat in summer. A camera with a zoom lens suits the birds. This is a good option for travellers who want a taste of the west coast but have less time than the longer Piha tour requires, or who would like to combine nature with food and wine. Pair it with a day at the Auckland Art Gallery or in the city for contrast, and note that cancellation terms are normally flexible, which is helpful if the coast weather turns.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group half-day trip to Muriwai Beach and its gannet colony, followed by a wine estate tasting.
Best time
The warmer months, when the gannets are nesting; fewer birds are on the cliffs outside the breeding season.
How long
About four hours.
Tips
Wear windproof layers and sturdy shoes, keep to the paths around the colony, and bring a zoom lens for the birds.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and nature lovers who want a short outing combining seabirds and wine.
- Families
- The colony suits children who like wildlife, though the wine tasting is for adults.
- Couples
- A relaxed half day with a dramatic coastline and a tasting.
- Pair with
- A longer Piha and Waitākere day on another occasion.
- Time needed
- About half a day.
Good questions
What is at Muriwai?+
Muriwai is a black-sand surf beach on Auckland’s west coast, with a gannet colony on the cliffs at its southern end.
When can I see gannets?+
Australasian gannets nest at Muriwai during the warmer months of the breeding season. There are fewer birds on the nests outside it.
How long is the tour?+
About four hours, including time at the colony and a tasting at a wine estate.
Is the wine tasting for everyone?+
Tastings are for adults of legal drinking age. Children can enjoy the colony and the beach, and a non-alcoholic option is normally available.
Do I need to drive?+
No, the tour handles the transport, so you can enjoy the tasting without a designated driver.
