Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE GREAT GANNET OE
After honing their flying skills, young gannets get the ultimate chance to test them - a 2000km journey to Aus-
tralia. They usually hang out there for several years before returning home, never to attempt the journey again.
Once back in the homeland they spend a few years waiting for a piece of waterfront property to become available
in the colony, before settling down with a regular partner to nest - returning to the same patch of dirt every year.
In other words, they're your typical New Zealander on their OE (Overseas Experience). Why are they called Ki-
wis again?
TOP OF CHAPTER
Muriwai Beach
Yet another rugged black-sand surf beach, stretching 60km, Muriwai Beach's main claim
to fame is the
Takapu Refuge gannet colony
, spread over the southern headland and outlying
rock stacks. Viewing platforms get you close enough to watch (and smell) these fascinat-
ing seabirds. Every August hundreds of adult birds return to this spot to hook up with their
regular partners and get busy - expect lots of outrageously cute neck-rubbing, bill-touch-
ing and general snuggling. The net result is a single chick per season; December and Janu-
ary are the best times to see the little fellas testing their wings before embarking on an im-
pressive odyssey.
Nearby, a couple of short tracks will take you through beautiful native bush to a lookout
that offers views along the length of the beach. Wild surf and treacherous rips mean that
swimming is safe only when the beach is patrolled (swim between the flags). Apart from
surfing, Muriwai Beach is a popular spot for hang gliding, parapunting, kiteboarding and
horse riding. There are also tennis courts, a golf course and a cafe that doubles as a
takeaway chippie.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Helensville
POP 2600
A smattering of heritage buildings, antique shops and cafes makes village-like Helensville
a good whistle-stop for those taking SH16 north.
Activities
