Tiritiri Matangi Island

An open wildlife sanctuary alive with birdsong.

This entire island is an open wildlife sanctuary and one of the most successful conservation projects in the world.

Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland and if you’re a first-time visitor, join a guided tour to discover the thriving wildlife all around you. Keep a watchful eye out for stitchbirds, bellbirds, tiny North Island robins and spot the beautiful blue-grey colours of the kokako. Plus check out the little blue penguins’ nesting boxes on the walking track around Hobbs Beach.

Rather explore the island at your own pace? Enjoy a swim and picnic at Hobbs Beach, a leisurely 10-minute walk from the main wharf. It’s the perfect spot for a dip on a sunny day, or just relax on the beach and soak up the views.

Explore one of the walking tracks that lead to the visitor centre, a popular place to enjoy a picnic lunch, or the 1-hour Kawaura Track through coastal forest and pohutukawa trees thought to be 800 to 1000 years old.

Don’t miss the historical lighthouse built in 1864, the oldest working lighthouse in New Zealand.

Island beaches are unpatrolled beaches. Stay safe - never swim or surf alone.

Find out about patrolled beaches and water safety.

Find out more about Tiritiri Matangi Island.