discover Tiritiri Matangi Island

Where is it?

Located in the Hauraki Gulf, this predator-free island is a 75 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. You can also catch the ferry from Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparoa Peninsula shortening the sailings to only 20 minutes.

What can I do?

• Birdlife - this predator-free island is home to many rare and endangered birds some that exist only in New Zealand. In total, 71 bird species can be observed on or near the island including the Korora (little blue penguin), Takahē, and Kōkako as well as reptiles and invertebrates. As the forest grows and the wildlife population increases, Tiritiri Matangi will become even more richly diverse. Read more about the island’s inhabitants here.
• Native forest - explore the regenerating forests of the island. Roughly 283,000 trees were planted between 1984 and 1994, regenerating 60% of the island’s forest. The island is home to one of New Zealand’s oldest pohutukawa trees, estimated to be 800 to 1,000 years old.
• Guided walk - we highly recommend the 90-minute guided morning walk with the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi. Your guide will lead you straight to the little blue penguins' nesting boxes and to some of the best spots to watch birdlife on the island. You'll learn how to identify different species by sight and sound. Bookings are essential. Learn more about the 90 minute guided walk here.
• Walking tracks - forested tracks of varying lengths allow you to discover at your own pace. Explore the two main wildlife paths (the 2km Wattle Track and the 3km Kawerau Track), and add a walk to Hobbs Beach. It's possible to stroll around the whole island in four hours or less. Purchase the walking track brochure from the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi Island for a detailed guide and map of all the available trails across the island. All profits go back to supporting the conservation and education programmes on the island. Learn more about Tiritiri Matangi walking tracks.
• Hobbs beach - only a 10 minute walk from the wharf is the unspoiled Hobbs Beach. It's the perfect spot for a picnic or a swim on a warm summer day.
• Lighthouse - see New Zealand’s oldest operating lighthouse! Tiritiri Matangi lighthouse was first lit in 1865, 25 years later the land was set aside as a lighthouse reserve. The structure was manufactured in London and brought to New Zealand in pieces. Now painted white, the original redbrick lighthouse became Auckland’s first major icon. You can still see the lighthouse buildings, including keepers’ houses, workshops and foghorns – a great photo opportunity.​
• Visitor centre - located near the lighthouse is the Visitor Centre and Gift Shop which feature the island's rich conservation history and the best selection of guidebooks and souvenirs to remember the creatures you saw on the island. All proceeds go directly back into the island's conservation and education efforts. Plus, enjoy complimentary coffee and tea.
• Stay the night on Tiritiri Matangi island! Bookings are essential. Have a look here.

What do I need?

• Plenty of water, snacks and lunch, as there are no food outlets on the island.
• Good walking shoes, sunscreen and a sun hat.
• Swimming gear and a towel in the warmer months.
• A light rain jacket, and warm layers. Temperatures can change quickly all year round.
• There are no rubbish bins on pest-free islands. Please remember to take all your rubbish, including leftover food, off the island with you.
• Bicycles, scooters and skateboards are not permitted on the island.

How long should I stay?

You should allocate a full day when planning your visit to Tiritiri Matangi. Bookings are recommended. To view the Fullers360 timetable click here.

Staying overnight?

If you're planning to stay overnight, you will need to contact us to book your return ferry tickets. Please call 0800 FULLERS (+64 9 367 9111).

You can book accommodation in the island's bunkhouse which is managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC). To book, visit the DOC website here. 

Please be aware that the bunkhouse is often used by volunteers and researchers and public beds are often booked up several months ahead, so it is wise to plan your trip well in advance. There is usually more space available in the winter months. Please pay close attention to the biosecurity requirements when planning an overnight visit. Camping is not permitted on the island.

Important pest-free island info

• Please check your bags for stowaways, such as mice, rats, Argentine ants and Rainbow Skinks to name a few.
• Ensure your footwear, clothing and bags are clean and free of soil and seeds.
• Your lunch must be packed in a rodent-proof/ sealed container e.g. hard plastic.
• No open bags or boxes will be allowed on-board. Everything you bring must be sealed or zipped closed.
• 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 before you visit a pest-free island here.

Onboard safety guidelines

To ensure you arrive safely please follow our onboard safety guidelines.