With Fullers360, you can get your students out of the classroom and immersed in New Zealand's rich nature and wildlife. We offer day trips to Rangitoto Island, Motutapu Island, Waiheke Island, and in the Hauraki Gulf. These islands can fit within your school's curriculum - including conservation, science studies, physical education and more.
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is one of New Zealand's youngest and most distinctive volcanoes, rising from the Hauraki Gulf just 600 years ago. A public scenic reserve managed by the Department of Conservation in partnership with tangata whenua Ngāi Tai and Ngāti Paoa, it offers a landscape unlike anywhere else - rugged lava fields, the largest pōhutukawa forest in New Zealand, and amazing panoramic views from the summit.
Education Level:
Primary, Intermediate, Secondary and Tertiary Students.
Learning Focuses:
- Geology and volcanic landforms - how Rangitoto Island formed and what that tells us about the Auckland Volcanic Field.
- Ecology - over 250 species of native trees and plants, including ferns and orchids, colonising a lava landscape.
- Summit walk to 360-degree views of Tāmaki Makaurau and the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana
- The role of Rangitoto Island in Māori culture and history.
Bookings are available as a scheduled sailing or private charter
Email charters@fullers.co.nz for group rates and timings.
Tiritiri Matangi - Chartered sailings only
Tiritiri Matangi is one of New Zealand's most successful open wildlife sanctuaries - a predator-free island where endangered birds thrive and visitors can experience first-hand what New Zealand's native bush sounded like before predators arrived.
The Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi Foundation offer educational programmes tailored to your curriculum, with guided walks providing expert commentary on wildlife, history, and the island's remarkable restoration story.
Education Level:
Primary, intermediate, secondary and tertiary students.
Learning Focuses:
- Encounters with rare and endangered species including takahē, tīeke (saddleback), Kōkako, and tūī
- Optional guided walks covering the island’s history and identification of species by sight and sound
- The island's conservation history -from farmland to predator-free sanctuary
- Opportunities for educator-led experiential activities at Hobbs Beach or the Visitor Centre
Did you know we also arrange sailings to the following destinations?
- Waiheke Island
- Motutapu (Islington Bay & Home Bay)
Ready to book a sailing in the Hauraki Gulf?
These are available as a scheduled sailing and private charter option.
Email charters@fullers.co.nz for group rates and timings.
Fullers360 FAQs
Find answers to our most frequently asked questions.
What should students bring?
Sturdy closed-toe shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a packed lunch (including enough water for the day). There are no shops on Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands. Limited options are available at the shop at Tiritiri Matangi. You can purchase food and drinks from our café on board our ferries.
How far in advance should we book?
We recommend booking at least four weeks ahead, particularly during term time when demand is high. For Tiritiri Matangi charters, earlier is better as dates and sailings are limited.
How many students can travel on one sailing?
Usually we can accommodate small to large group sizes, however vessel capacity can vary. Get in touch and we'll recommend the right option for your group size.
Is there a minimum group size?
For Rangitoto, Waiheke and Motutapu there is not, for Tiritiri Matangi there is. Contact us at charters@fullers.co.nz and we can advise based on the destination and sailing type.
What are the group rates?
We offer discounted rates for school groups. Email charters@fullers.co.nz for a quote based on your numbers and destination.
Can parent helpers travel with us?
Yes. Let us know how many accompanying adults when you enquire and we'll include them in your quote.
Will someone meet me on the wharf to help us find where we’re going?
A member of our team is normally available at Auckland’s Downtown Ferry Terminal to direct you where to go.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We monitor conditions closely and will contact you in advance if a trip needs to be changed or cancelled. Our team will work with you to rebook where possible.
Do you provide risk assessments or health and safety documentation?
Yes, we can provide a RAMS documentation to support your school's trip approval process. Request this when you make your enquiry.
What should students bring?
Sturdy closed-toe shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a packed lunch. There is no food or water available on Rangitoto Island or Tirititi Matangi. Limited options are available onboard our ferries.
Are Rangitoto Motutapu and Tiritiri Matangi pest-free islands? What does that mean for us?
Yes, these islands are protected sanctuaries, which means biosecurity is taken seriously. All visitors must follow ‘check, clean, and pack’ protocols before boarding. We'll send you a pre-trip briefing guide to share with students and staff. You can read more about visiting pest-free islands here.
I have booked at MOEC (Motutapu Outdoor Education Camp), what should I do now?
If you have booked a school camp at MOEC please email charters@fullers.co.nz
