A popular Muriwai tourist attraction is reopening in time for Christmas and the summer bird nesting season, allowing visitors once again to view a majestic seabird colony of gannets as they gather at Auckland’s west coast.
Following an extended closure due to significant storm damage in early 2023, the Maukatia Gannet Track and access to the Takapu Refuge / Gannet Colony at Ōtakamiro Point in Muriwai has now been restored.
Access to viewing points in the Muriwai Regional Park, positioned above the gannets nesting site, is set to reopen from 20 December 2024.
Regional Parks Western Principal Ranger Dave Markham says recent geo-technical reports and engineer feedback have confirmed the area is now safe for pedestrians to return. He tempers this by adding that more work will be needed to respond to the damage caused in the 2023 storm events, necessitating a renewed closure after the gannets migrate in 2025.
Mr Markham says the gannets have always drawn a steady stream of curious bystanders to Muriwai in their breeding season.
“It is captivating to watch the habits of these noisy birds like their torpedo-style plunge to catch fish, and the bill fencing or head-bowing of pairs in their nest.
“The track opening will no doubt provide a welcome boost to Muriwai visits by being back on the tourist maps while the gannets are present,” says Mr Markham
“The Muriwai colony is one of only three Australasian gannet nesting sites in New Zealand, and it is by far the most accessible,” he adds.
The largest mainland colony is at Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay with around 5000 breeding pairs, followed by populations of around 1000 at both Muriwai and Farewell Spit at the top of the South Island.
“This year, we are expecting to see plenty of healthy chicks emerge as the colony grows from now through to the end of summer, and then they’ll eventually all take flight.
“The track provides some great vantage points to come and see the gannets until about March or April,” says Mr Markham.
Once the gannets leave, the Maukatia Gannet Track is likely to temporarily close for more repair work.
Visitors are advised to check the track status before leaving home - Maukatia Gannet Track – coastal walks in Auckland.
Car parking is recommended in the Waitea Road car park. Follow the signs towards Maukatia / Māori Bay and look out for the unique ancient lava pillow formations on your way to Ōtakamiro Point.
Rangers remind visitors that dogs are not permitted on the track.
