Map of Muriwai

Known equally for its surf beaches as its gannet colony, Muriwai offers visitors a break from shopping and wine tasting to provide a breath of fresh sea air and a bit of thinking time.

Just a short walk up a track from the ample car park and you'll be as high as the gannets as they fly just above your heard - circling the colony looking for a spot to land.

On a good day you'll see around 1200 pairs of gannets gathered on rocks with a handful taking off and flying past you as if to take a good look at today's visitors.

Take photos of the birds sitting together, flying around or just capture the ocean, blue sky and beach area from this excellent vantage point. Fantastic!

Nesting season is between August and March and once the young ones are up to it they fly across the Tasman to Australia. Three years later they return to mate and start the process all over again.

Down on the coastline of Muriwai you can fish from the shoreline to catch tonight's supper or go surfing. And if that doesn't suit, then you can play golf, settle down at a nearby camp site or go hiking in nearby forest and parkland.

Things to see and do

• Play golf

• Surfing

• Camping

• Cafes and restaurants

• Regional parks