Marsden Cove Hauraki Gulf Pelagic Birding Day
Search the northern Hauraki Gulf for Pycroft’s Petrel, New Zealand Storm Petrel and other breeding seabirds on a full-day pelagic from Marsden Cove.
About this tour
This full-day pelagic leaves Marsden Cove and heads into the northern Hauraki Gulf, working the waters around the Hen and Chicken Islands. The trip is organised around dedicated seabird observation, with offshore stops and chumming locations selected for the day’s wind, swell and recent activity.
Pycroft’s Petrel is the defining target. Other stated possibilities include New Zealand Storm Petrel, Cook’s Petrel, Black Petrel, Common Diving Petrel, White-faced Storm Petrel and Buller’s, Fluttering and Little Shearwaters. Grey-faced Petrel is more relevant during its stated October-to-December period.
The schedule is connected with Wrybill’s longer national tour program, but places may also be available separately. Bad weather can prevent an offshore departure or alter the route. Species, numbers and viewing distance are never guaranteed, and any encounters with dolphins, whales or other marine life are incidental unless the charter operator holds the appropriate viewing permit. Current dates, meeting instructions and all prices remain available only on request.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to New Zealand.
Birds you can spot
Procellaria parkinsoni
likely
Ardenna bulleri
likely
Pelecanoides urinatrix
likely
Pterodroma cookii
likely
Puffinus gavia
likely
Pterodroma gouldi
likely
Puffinus assimilis
likely
Fregetta maoriana
likely
Pterodroma pycrofti
likely
Pelagodroma marina
likely
Itinerary
Day 1
Marsden Cove and the northern Hauraki Gulf
Depart Marsden Cove and travel toward the Hen and Chicken Islands. Spend the day scanning and using suitable offshore observation or chumming areas for Pycroft’s Petrel and the wider northern seabird community, with the precise route governed by wind, swell and recent activity. Return to Marsden Cove after the offshore session.
Locations & map
- Marsden Cove - Northland New Zealand
- Hen and Chicken Islands - Hauraki Gulf New Zealand
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Scheduled and private departures; current availability on request.
Price: Price on request
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
Can weather affect the trip?
Yes. The final route and operation depend on safe sea and weather conditions.
Are specific seabirds guaranteed?
No. The trip targets locally expected seabirds, but sightings vary with season, weather and feeding conditions.
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.