Auckland West Coast Wine & Muriwai Gannet Colony Tour

Auckland (Region), Auckland



Explore Auckland’s rugged west coast on a private tour. Visit Muriwai Beach, home to New Zealand’s famous gannet colony, and enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery.

This private day tour explores Muriwai Beach’s seabird colony and the Kumeū wine region, ideal for nature and wine enthusiasts based in Auckland.

Highlights

  • See hundreds of seabirds nesting at Muriwai Beach
  • Explore the black sand beach and coastal views
  • Visit a boutique vineyard in the Kumeū wine region for wine tasting
  • Enjoy a private, flexible experience with local insights from your guide
  • Travel in a comfortable private vehicle with commentary

Description

Depart Auckland CBD or your accommodation in a private vehicle with an informative guide. Journey through lush countryside and coastal landscapes, with stops for photos.

At Muriwai Beach, walk to the gannet colony lookout to observe hundreds of seabirds nesting (best viewed August to March). Learn about their migration and behaviour while exploring the black sand beach.

Next, visit a boutique vineyard in the Kumeū wine region for a guided wine tasting overlooking the vineyards. Lunch or platters are available at your own cost.

Return to Auckland with drop-off at your accommodation, including optional scenic stops depending on timing.

Includes

  • Private transport
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Bottled water
  • Guide/driver commentary
  • Wine tasting fees

Excludes

  • Food and drinks

Important Information

  • Wine tasting fees vary by winery
  • Food and drinks are not included and must be purchased separately

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, book in advance. Bring weather-appropriate attire and a camera. The best time to visit the gannet colony is between August and March.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a visit to Muriwai Beach’s gannet colony, a walk along the black sand beach, and a guided wine tasting at a boutique vineyard in the Kumeū wine region.
The tour departs from Auckland, usually with hotel pick-up in a private vehicle.
The Muriwai gannet colony is best seen from August to March when the seabirds are nesting, though sightings can occur year-round.
This experience typically takes a full day; check the tour provider’s website for exact durations.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and provides opportunities to learn about wildlife and wine in Auckland’s west coast area.
No prior wine knowledge is needed, as the tasting is guided and informative for all experience levels.
Yes, participants walk along Muriwai’s black sand beach to observe the gannets and coastal scenery.
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable private vehicle from Auckland to all locations.
The tour is flexible and private, allowing some customization based on your interests and pace.
Please check the official tour website for current schedules, pricing, and availability.

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