Gannet Colony

Each year Farewell Spit attracts thousands of migratory seabirds to nest and feed on the fertile sand flats. The Australasian Gannet colony, a short way past the lighthouse, is New Zealand's newest mainland gannet colony. Unlike others, which are usually located on high rocky outcrops, this colony is on the sand, almost at sea level. Maybe not the best idea in terms of rising sea levels and storm surges, it's a handy spot for them to fish and raise their young. It is also the fastest growing Gannet Colony in New Zealand and is best seen on our Gannet Colony Tour.