Sunday 31 January

Today we had a tour booked to see the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers. We arrived in plenty of time after about a half hour drive down the coast from Napier. The track out to the colony is over private land and is quite an experience in itself. A beautiful landscape which has been created by the earth’s movements once again.

The gannet colony was marvellous. There are three different colonies. The one we visited, perched high up on the cliff, another down below and a third situated further away on a rocky reef. The one on the top of the cliff is the largest. The height gives these large birds greater lift when taking off into the thermals.

It was fascinating to see these birds so close and to watch their behaviour first hand. They mate for life and there were many young males trying very hard to impress a suitable mate. The young chicks, born in December were at various stages of development. Many ready to embark on their first flight which will take them across the Tasman Sea to Australia. They have never flown before this moment when they take to the air for this journey which many do not survive.

There are many chicks which have been born at a second stage because the first eggs were taken by scavengers, so the pair produce another egg. Sadly the majority of these second stage chicks do not survive.

After our tour we visited Hastings to sample the famous Rush Munro’s ice cream. Then a visit to the Silky Oak Chocolate Factory. Both absolutely delicious.

Returning to Napier we headed up to the Bluff again to take a look at Legend of the Seas which had arrived at midday. We had seen a coach load of passengers at the chocolate factory!

That evening our hosts had invited us to their street party. So we joined with them for a great bbq and a thoroughly enjoyable evening. The rain held off which was lucky. What a lovely way to end our stay in this lovely city.

Visible uplifting of the earth along the cliffs

This pied Oystercatcher was alone when we drove past on our way out. Fortunately its mate was there when we passed on the way back. You can just see two swallows which were flitting around as well.

After the albatross these are a favourite of mine

To see them so close was a treat

This young fellow was collecting for some time before he took off with his prize.

He made five or six circuits before landing once again close to where he took off. Either trying to impress a prospective partner or he couldn't navigate into his assigned landing spot too well!

This youngster is getting a good feed

A lot of display activity going on

The chicks flex their wings constantly. They never get the chance to try them until they take off for their first flight and do not land again until they reach Australia