Gannet Island
Gannet Island (known in Māori as Motukokako) lies off the coast near the entrance to Kawhia Harbour, along the rugged and scenic west coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It is one of the most significant seabird sanctuaries in the Waikato region and is renowned as home to a thriving colony of Australasian Gannets (Morus serrator).
About the Island
Rising dramatically from the Tasman Sea, Gannet Island is a rocky outcrop that provides an ideal nesting environment for seabirds. The island is essentially a wildlife sanctuary and is not open to general public access, which has helped protect its colony of gannets and other bird species from human disturbance.
The island can be viewed from the coastline and from the water. Boat tours operating from Kawhia and nearby areas occasionally offer viewing opportunities that allow visitors to appreciate the stunning spectacle of thousands of gannets in their natural habitat without disturbing the colony.
The Australasian Gannet Colony
The Australasian Gannet is a large, striking seabird with brilliant white plumage, golden-yellow head feathers, and distinctive black-tipped wings. Adults have a wingspan of approximately 170–200 centimetres, making them an impressive sight when seen soaring over the sea or plunge-diving for fish.
The colony at Gannet Island is one of the most significant on New Zealand’s west coast. Gannets are colonial nesters, and the island provides the rocky ledges and open ground they require. During the breeding season, the island is alive with the sounds and activity of thousands of birds.
● Did You Know?
Australasian Gannets are remarkable divers — they can plunge into the sea from heights of up to 30 metres, reaching speeds of 140 km/h as they enter the water to catch fish. Special air sacs beneath the skin of their face and chest help cushion the impact.Breeding Season
The gannet breeding season at the island typically runs from late winter through to late summer:
- August – September: Adults return to the colony and begin courtship rituals and nest preparation.
- October – November: Eggs are laid. Gannets typically lay a single egg per season.
- December – January: Chicks hatch and the colony is at its most active and noisy.
- February – March: Fledglings prepare to depart. Young gannets undertake a remarkable migration, often travelling as far as Australia before returning to New Zealand several years later to breed.
Other Wildlife
While gannets are the headline attraction, Gannet Island and its surrounding waters support a variety of other wildlife. Little blue penguins (Eudyptula minor) — the world’s smallest penguin — are also known to inhabit the area. The waters around the island are rich in marine life, and it is not uncommon to spot dolphins, fur seals, and occasionally orcas in the vicinity.
Viewing Gannet Island
Because the island itself is protected, the best ways to appreciate Gannet Island are:
- By boat: Local operators may offer guided boat trips that pass near the island. Always check locally for current operators and availability.
- From the shore: On clear days the island is visible from the Kawhia coastline. Binoculars or a telescope are recommended for the best views of the birds in action.
- From the air: Scenic flights from the region can provide a spectacular aerial perspective of the island and its gannet colony.
● Important Note
Gannet Island is a protected wildlife sanctuary. Landing on the island without authorisation from the Department of Conservation (DOC) is not permitted. Please respect this restriction to help preserve the colony for future generations.Conservation Status
The Australasian Gannet is currently classified as “Not Threatened” in New Zealand, and the population appears to be stable or increasing. However, the island colony is still an important conservation asset. The Department of Conservation monitors the colony and manages the surrounding area to minimise threats from predators and human disturbance.
Visitors are encouraged to observe the “code of the sea” when viewing wildlife from boats — maintaining appropriate distances, minimising noise, and never feeding or approaching wildlife.
Getting to the Kawhia Area
Kawhia is located on the west coast of the North Island, south of Raglan and west of Te Awamutu. The town is accessible via State Highway 31 and scenic back roads from Hamilton or Te Awamutu. For more details on reaching Kawhia, visit our Getting Here page.