Cape Kidnappers - North Island, New Zealand

Cape Kidnappers is so named because of an interesting incident when Captain Cook first sailed into the southern point of Hawkes Bay. According to legend, two Maori traders noticed two Tahitian men who were serving as interpreters aboard Cook's ship.

The traders mistook the Tahitians to be held captive against their wishes on the ship and whisked one of them away. The man escaped and made it back to Cook's ship and Captain Cook thus marked this point as Cape Kidnappers.

Cape Kidnappers Activities

Cape Kidnappers is home to the world's largest mainland gannet colony. Gannets are large web footed seabirds with sharp bills and large wings. The breeding season is from June to October and during this period the Cape is closed to the public, and intense scientific activity takes place.

Some of the large colonies are found at The Saddle and Black Reef. The gannet colonies can be reached for viewing from both Napier and Hastings visitor centres with bookings and tour operators available.

Another good place to observe the gannets is the 11 km walk along the beach from Clifton. You are advised to check the tide timings for the day from the Department of Conservation (DOC) office at Hastings or Napier. There are operators who provide tractor drawn trailer trips and 4WD trips to see the birds at close range.

Cape Kidnappers Accommodation

Cape Kidnappers accommodation is limited. Napier and Hastings both provide an excellent base for accommodation with day trips to Cape Kidnappers.

LooknbookNZ can take care of your Cape Kdinappers accommodation and Cape Kidnappers activities bookings and allow your family/friends to have a great time observing the gannets.