The drive from Hokianga to Piha

About 200 miles/6hrs between the two, with a diversion to Murawai as I approached Piha.

Nesting Gannet Pairs

Gannets pair up for life and each takes a 48 hr shift tending to the single egg.

There seems to be a constant flurry in the air of gannets taking off/landing at the nest. They do not land gracefully ... more of a slow stall created by max down tail (elevator?) and then a bit of a controlled fall ...

They're beautiful birds with a 6-1/2' wingspan!

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"Now, where did I park ...?"

Mating Ritual

Seem to be quite amarous...

True love ...

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