Rotoroa Island is a unique arts, heritage and conservation island. Come and see the endangered species in the wild - and learn about the mission to save them. Bring your walking shoes to explore the island’s network of trails and lookout points, or simply relax with a swim at one of four beautiful beaches.
Experience this Hauraki Gulf wildlife sanctuary, home to endangered native species including kiwi, tīeke, takahē, pāteke and skinks.
Rotoroa was closed to the public for more than 100 years, as home to NZ’s first addiction treatment centre. Rotoroa maintains historical buildings and exhibitions showcasing the island’s fascinating history. For a truly unique experience, you can even stay the night at the island’s boutique hostel or in a vintage holiday home.
Rotoroa Island is nestled among a chain of islets off Waiheke’s east coast. The island is a 75-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland or catch a ferry from Orapiu wharf on Waiheke Island, which is only a 10 minute journey.
Visiting Rotoroa requires a full day. Bookings are recommended. To view Fullers360 ferry timetables click here.
Read more before you visit a pest-free island here.
Your safety is important to us. To ensure you arrive on Rotoroa Island safely please follow our onboard safety guidelines.
To purchase a Rotoroa Island Gift Voucher, please contact our Call Centre team at 0800 FULLERS or +64 9 367 9111.
Bookings are recommended for Rotoroa Island. Boarding for Rotoroa Island closes 15 minutes before departure time.
If you have pre-purchased tickets from our website or MyFerry app, please make sure you have printed or downloaded your e-ticket BEFORE you leave home. This option allows you to go straight to boarding.
If you are travelling from the Downtown ferry terminal please allow AT LEAST 45 minutes before your ferry departure to navigate the terminal and board your ferry. Please note the time provided is estimated and does not include car parking and walk time to terminal. Click here to learn more.
Please use the current Ferry Terminal Pier Map below as a guide - the red dotted lines show where pedestrian access is available:
Choose the destination or tour (and date of travel if applicable) and click ‘buy now’ and follow the transaction instructions to complete your purchase online. You’ll receive a confirmation email and your e-ticket to either print at home or download BEFORE you leave home so you can go straight to your boarding pier [indicated on the ticket].
Click here to learn more.
We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance of travel and arrival at the ferry terminal, especially during the peak of summer and public holidays.
Rotoroa Island is a full day activity due to the ferry service timetable. It is possible to extend your stay at certain times of the year by staying overnight in the fantastic island units if you book in advance. Make sure you book in advance as they book out fast! (See ‘Can I stay on the island?’ further down).
There are no food outlets on the island so please bring your own food and water. All food must be packed in a rodent-proof, sealed container (e.g. hard plastic). There are public BBQs on the island for you to cook your food if you wish.
There are no rubbish bins on pest-free islands. Please remember to take all your rubbish, including leftover food, off the island with you. Read more about visiting a pest-free island here.
There are no rubbish bins on pest-free islands. Please remember to take all your rubbish, including leftover food, off the island with you. Read more about visiting a pest-free island here.
Rotoroa Island is predator-free and home to endangered native species, including kiwi, tieke, takahē and skinks. Visit our wildlife page here to see what your visit has in store.
Rotoroa is great for children 5 years and over, as there are easy walking tracks and plenty of opportunities to view wildlife. There are also interactive exhibits to explore plus great beaches.
Yes, but you need to be aware that access to many parts of the Island may be difficult. Also, please be sure to remove any soil or seeds from the treads.
No. These items aren’t permitted on the island.
Dogs are not permitted on Rotoroa Island. You can take a disability assist dog into controlled dog areas without the need for a permit if it is kept under control at all times.
Yes, mobile coverage is available on Rotoroa Island.
Yes. Located in Home Bay within the exhibition centre, and adjacent to the school house. More toilets (and outside showers) are located at Ladies Bay.
If you have booked accommodation to stay overnight please book your ferry tickets carefully, as you'll need to ensure you book the exact date and time you wish to return.
Yes. There are three beautifully renovated vintage style units available to hire. These are very popular so be sure to book well in advance. To find out more click here.
If you’re planning an overnight stay and have booked your own accommodation at one of the islands we travel to, please ensure you have booked the correct return ferry on the exact date and time you wish to return.
IMPORTANT: A same day return ticket does not allow an overnight stay at any of our destinations. Avoid disappointment on the day and check you book the correct return ferry trip!
No. The ferry to Rotoroa makes a stops at Orapiu, Waiheke Island to drop off and pick up passengers.
Travel to all destinations is subject to Fullers360 Terms and conditions and Code of conduct.