This has to be one of the best ports of call and one of the best tours ever. The tour to the gannett colony in Cape Kidnapper was fantastic. We drove in 4 x 4 mini buses up through the hills, gorges and passes and the sights along the way were wonderful. One of the prettiest areas of New Zealand. Rugged and varied. Lots of sheep along the way and plenty of black angus.

New Zealand has adopted a program of saving the native animal species by ridding itself of newly introduced animals like rats, feral cats, stoats, etc. Apparently sheep, dogs, cows and goats don’t count. They are hoping that the native bird population will increase.

The gannett colony was worthwhile seeing. We were as close as a few inches away from the birds. They are only protective of their own 12 x 12 inches of space. The fluffy grey and white birds are the young.
One interesting thing to note regarding the gannetts is that they only like to fly when it is windy and they soar. They are a relative to the boobie and about three times bigger. I would say they are also about three times bigger than our typical seagull. Being a girl raised in a rural setting I do know about being upwind and the smell emanating from the colony made that necessary.

I had no time in the city except a quick tour on the way back to the boat. Again I wish I had more time here. They are known for their art deco buildings which they have conscientiously preserved. At the ship we were greeted by vintage cars and some costumed vintage people. More fun.