discover Tiritiri Matangi Island

Where is it?

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

What can I do?

• Birdlife - This predator-free island is home to many rare and endangered birds - some that exist only in New Zealand. 71 species of birdlife can be observed on or near the island - including the Korora (little blue penguin), Takahē, and Kōkako plus see 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. 283,000 trees were planted between 1984 and 1994, regenerating 60% of the island’s forest. See 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 by the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi. Your guide will lead you straight to the little blue penguins' nesting boxes, plus show you the best spots to watch birdlife and how to identify the 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 2 km Wattle Track and the 3 km Kawerau Track), and add a walk to Hobbs Beach. It's even 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 walking tracks.
• Beaches - 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 after 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, the Visitor Centre and Gift Shop 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, sun block and a sun hat.
• Swimming gear and a towel in the warmer months.
• A light rain jacket, and warm layers. Temperatures can change quickly, regardless of the season.
• There are no rubbish bins on pest-free islands. Please remember to take all your rubbish, including leftover food, off the island with you.
• Please note: Bicycles, scooters and skateboards are not permitted on the island.

How long should I stay?

This is a full-day activity due to the ferry timetable and travel time to the island from downtown Auckland. Bookings are recommended. For ferry timetables 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 that 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

On-Board Safety Guidelines

Your safety is important to us. To ensure that your journey is smooth sailing please follow our On-Board Safety Guidelines.