aucklandnz.com FREE VISITOR GUIDE

Auckland’s Marine Park & Island Guide 1

Visitor information Contents

Auckland’s i-SITE Visitor Centres can help you book your holiday in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, and throughout the Welcome to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park 2 rest of Auckland and . Visit our teams for bookings and information about attractions, Treasure Islands 6 activities, accommodation, rental cars, motorhomes, buses and ferries. Open seven days, freephone 0800 AUCKLAND Hauraki Gulf Islands 8 (0800 282 552) or email [email protected]. 8 Princes Wharf Waiheke Island 137 Quay Street 118E Oceanview Road - Aotea 18 Princes Wharf, Auckland Oneroa, Waiheke Island 32 +64 (0)9 367 6009 +64 (0)9 372 1234 35 SKYCITY Great Barrier Island P3 Sky Tower, Cnr Victoria Claris Airport Terminal, 40 & Federal Streets Hector Sanderson Road Browns Island - 42 Auckland +64 (0)9 429 0981 44 +64 (0)9 367 6009 0800 468 622 48 International Airport Devonport Arrivals Hall 3 Victoria Road Island 50 Manukau, Auckland Devonport, Auckland 52 +64 (0)9 367 6009 +64 (0)9 365 9906

Domestic Airport Warkworth Marine Reserves 56 Air New Zealand Terminal 1 Baxter Street Manukau, Auckland Warkworth, Auckland Volunteering in Auckland 58 +64 (0)9 367 6009 +64 (0)9 425 9081 Birds of the Hauraki Gulf 60 Department of Conservation Auckland Visitor Centre

For information from the Department of Conservation, visit the Auckland i-SITE Visitor Centre located on Princes Wharf. Department of Conservation opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 4pm (October to April). Email [email protected] or phone +64 (0)9 379 6476.

Cover image: Kayaking near Browns Island

aucklandnz.com 2 Welcome to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park 3

Waiheke Island and Great Barrier Island - Aotea are the largest in size and also have the largest permanent populations. Other islands range from tiny, uninhabited rocks to pest-free havens for our precious wildlife. Moor up in a sheltered bay, have a swim, catch a snapper for lunch or picnic on a deserted beach — it’s the lifestyle Aucklanders are envied for. Charter a boat or hire a kayak and you can experience it See dolphins and whales at play in the pristine waters for yourself. Other commercial enterprises also began Many island adventures are just a ferry around this time, including flourmills, ride away, including the Tiritiri Matangi brickworks, manufacturing and the open wildlife sanctuary, the dormant extraction of mineral resources. volcano of Rangitoto and the rich social Welcome to history of Rotoroa Island. Or explore the As a result of the commercial inner harbour on a day cruise with Fullers, development of the Hauraki Gulf, concerns the Hauraki Gulf 360 Discovery or Explore NZ. for the conservation of the native species in the area were raised. This led to the Marine Park History development of nature reserves on several For nearly 1,000 years the Hauraki Gulf islands in the Hauraki Gulf between the 1850s and Many of the islands are just Welcome to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park – an area has been a focal point of human activity a short ferry ride away 1960s, and in the 1970s of great cultural, historical, spiritual, ecological and and home to generations of residents. Tiritiri Matangi Island economic significance to the people of Auckland. Māori generally refer to the gulf by the names Tikapa Moana and Te Moana Nui ō became New Zealand’s In 2000 the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, New Zealand’s Toi. Legend describes the Arawa canoe first restoration project first national park of the sea, was created to recognise and arriving in the gulf under Tamatekapua’s after 130 years of protect the unique features and environments of the gulf. command. He placed a mauri/life force on farming. The marine park is a treasured living space that connects a rocky islet at the north eastern entrance people and places, and links the land and sea. It includes of the gulf, calling it ‘Tikapa’. It is from this marine reserves, Department of Conservation and name that Tikapa Moana originates. community group managed islands and mainland reserves, and is a unique concept in New Zealand. Between the 1770s and the 1900s the Hauraki Gulf’s resources were of important The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is the jewel in Auckland’s economic significance to the Māori and crown and encompasses over one million hectares of European people. Timber stations were a sheltered, sparkling blue waters, dotted with emerald source of trade and employment and islands. It was rated as the top experience in New Zealand many mills were established throughout in the 2012 Lonely Planet guide. the area. Sailing under sunny skies. Fantail/pīwakawaka

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 4Bream Bay Welcome to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park 5

Rakitu Island (Arid Island) Find out more • Visit the world’s largest

Te Arai Point Little Barrier pohutukawa forest on Island (Hauturu) pest-free Rangitoto Island • Look for takahe and blue penguins on Tiritiri Matangi Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Island Marine Reserve Goat Island (Motu Hawere) Pakiri Great Barrier • Discover Waiheke Island Island (Aotea) Little blue penguin/kororā by bus, scooter, kayak or Leigh Hauraki Gulf mountain bike • Take time to go wild on beautiful Great Barrier

Tawharanui Marine Reserve Island - Aotea

0 3 6 9 12 15 Kilometres Warkworth

1 Kawau Island Key to map Channel Island Conservation reserves - visitors welcome Beehive Island Nature reserve - no landing without permit Square Top Island Motuketekete Roads Moturekareka Motutara This map is intended as a guide only. Those going tramping Motukokopu Island Motuora are advised to use the appropriate topographical map. Not to be used for navigation. Saddle Island © Department of Conservation (DOC) Casnell Island

Coromandel

Orewa Tiritiri Matangi Island

Pollen Island Auckland Colville Bay

Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve

Rakino Island Motutapu

1 Rangitoto Island Pakatoa Island Pest advice Motuihe Waiheke Island Coromandel Harbour Help protect the islands of North Rotoroa Island Waitemata Head the Hauraki Gulf from pests. Harbour Browns Island (Motukorea) See page 6 for details. Te Matuku Ponui Marine Reserve Island treasureislands.co.nz

Motu Manawa 1 Firth (Pollen Island) Coromandel aucklandnz.com of Peninsula Marine Reserve Thames

Manukau Harbour Key to map Conservation reserves 1 - visitors welcome Nature reserves - no landing without permit Roads This map is intended as a guide only. Those going tramping are advised to use the appropriate 0136912K5 ilometres topographical map. Not to be used for navigation. Copyright DOC. 6 Treasure Islands 7

DID YOU KNOW? • Rats can squeeze through a 12mm gap, and mice through a 7mm gap. • Mice, insect pests and the invasive rainbow skink could hide in your bag. • Weed seeds cling to clothing and shoes. • Soil on shoes or gear may carry unwanted plant diseases.

TAKING YOUR OWN BOAT OR KAYAK? Check your vessel is clean and pest-free. Keep fresh bait and/or set traps on your vessel where your bait Rainbow skink Mice and rats is stored.

VISITING OVERNIGHT? Before you leave, unpack and thoroughly check Treasure Islands your camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, etc.) for stowaway pests. The majority of islands in the Hauraki Gulf provide Argentine ant sanctuaries for native animals and plants. Many HELP SAVE OUR PRECIOUS KAURI TREES Soil and seeds are completely pest-free and others are free of A soil-borne disease is killing our native kauri trees. some pests. Stay on tracks and off kauri roots. Clean and remove Sealed bags and containers keep ‘Stowaway’ pests can easily destroy our unique soil from footwear and gear before and after pests out wildlife. They can and have hitched a ride to islands entering kauri forest areas on islands in the Hauraki on or in bags, clothing, footwear or with food. Gulf. See kauridieback.co.nz for more details.

NO PETS Help protect our wildlife Dogs and other pets are banned from all pest-free Before you leave the mainland or travel between islands and many reserves on other islands in the islands in the Hauraki Gulf, please do the following: Hauraki Gulf, including their beaches. • Check your bags for possible stowaway pests For further information visit treasureislands.co.nz - rats, mice, Argentine ants, rainbow skinks, soil and seeds. Clean your footwear Seen a pest before you leave • Remove all soil and seeds from footwear and gear. If you have seen a • Pack food into sealed containers to keep pests out. pest on a pest-free island call 0800 DOC HOT Open containers and boxes, supermarket bags Open bags are (0800 362 468) an invitation to pests and loose items are not permitted.

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Waiheke Waiheke means ‘cascading waters’ in Māori and is well-known for its large number of Island vineyards, some of which have a stellar international reputation. But there’s more to Waiheke than its superb wines.

Soak up the stunning views As one of the larger islands in the gulf, Waiheke’s in luxury at Delamore Lodge, Waiheke Island. landscape varies greatly. The western end of the island where passengers arrive buzzes with village and beach Sip on award-winning wines at Cable Bay Vineyard, life, while the east is a real getaway destination. Waiheke Waiheke Island has a permanent population of over 8,000 people, but this swells to over 50,000 in summer. Getting to Waiheke Island couldn’t be easier. The passenger ferry from downtown Auckland takes just 35 minutes. If you want to take a car, the vehicle ferry runs from Half Moon Bay and takes around 45 minutes. Transport on the island includes a bus service and taxis, with cars, scooters and bicycles available for hire. There’s plenty to explore among the picturesque farmland, Pest advice forest, beaches, vineyards, olive groves, villages and Help protect Waiheke deserted bays. In a day you could visit art studios, swim at Island from pests. See page a sandy beach, sample local olive oils and award-winning 6 for details. wines and dine at a café or vineyard restaurant.

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Thumb Point Waiheke Island (Te Patu Point)

Hauraki Hooks Bay Gulf

Hooks Bay Matiatia Wharf Walkway - passenger ferry Thompsons terminal Point

Stony Batter Historic Reserve

Matietie Mawhitipana Track Bay Opopo Bay Oneroa Walkway Matiatia Bay Palm Beach Bay Bay Opopo Oneroa Bay

Man O' War Onetangi Bay

Man O'War Bay Road Pakatoa Waiheke Road Island Huruhi Ostend Bay

Putiki Bay

Orapiu Road Park Point Awaawaroa Road (Te Roreomaiaea) Omiha Kennedy Point Cowes Rotoroa - vehicular ferry Regional Island terminal Rocky Bay Park (Whakanewha Bay) Pasadena Bay Cowes Bay Road Regional Park or Public Conservation land Awaawaroa Omaru DOC Tracks Bay Te Matuku Bay Legal and Formed Roads Bay Orapiu Marine Reserve Orapiu Waiheke Channel Tamaki Strait Bay Copyright DOC. Ponui 0 1 2 3 4 5 Kilometres Te Matuku Sunday Marine Reserve Rock Island

Passage Rock Kauri Point Ponui aucklandnz.com for details. annual festivals andevents heldon theisland,visit For suggested itineraries and numerous popular won’t ofthingsto seeanddo. beshort spare orsomeleisurely days to fill, you Whether you have justafew hours to beaches. sandy walking tracks orswim atgolden galleries, explore oneofthemany zipline. Discover hiddengems inlocalart zoom across thetree tops onaflying fox and trytheirhandatarchery, clay pigeon shootingoreven Adventure seekers canhire ascooter to explore theisland vines. of winewithagourmet lunchplatter overlooking the Visit thecellar doorataboutiquewineryorenjoy aglass the island,there isplenty ofopportunityfor winetasting. Known asthe ‘IslandofWine’ withsome 30 winerieson cuisine, award-winning wineandplentifulolive groves. own leisure to discover why it’s renowned for itsfive-star a scenic tour withafriendlylocalguideorexplore atyour island, includingadventure bothonandoffthe water. Take have somefun.There’s awiderange ofthingsto do onthe Waiheke Islandisagreat place to relax, kickbackand Things to do Archery amongstthevinesatWild onWaiheke numerous wineriesandvineyards car andpassenger ferries from Waiheke IslandwithSeaLink’s Take your caracross to bicycle transport. and there isnocharge for passenger-only ferry services Fullers offers regular Waiheke Island Enjoy awinetastingatoneofWaiheke’s Half MoonBay. Fullers runsregular ferries dailyto around Auckland.

from various locations Flight Hauraki, Getting there offer flights totheisland Heletranz Adventures HeleScene, Helilink and Waiheke Island aucklandnz.com 11 12 Waiheke Island 13

MATIATIA / OWHANAKE LOOP Visitor information Take in as much of the island as possible without • Public transport, tours, venturing too far from the ferry and Oneroa village rental bikes, taxis and with this walking track. The main loop starts at Matiatia transfers are available from Wharf and takes about 3 hours at a leisurely pace, while the ferry terminal at several side trips take in some of Waiheke Island’s Matiatia Wharf or by historical highlights. pre-booking with the Adventure seekers local i-SITE. can hire a scooter to ONEROA / BLACKPOOL STRETCH • EFTPOS, Visa and explore the island This 1 ½ hour walk from Street is a great way to see Mastercard services are and try their hand at the beaches, coastal reserves, baches, Oneroa village and available at most businesses. archery, clay pigeon residential areas. The walk starts at the island’s main • There is no public transport shooting or even village of Oneroa. Two access ways are available from to – an historic Oneroa village to Oneroa Beach – one on the corner of site at the eastern end of the zoom across the island. To book car hire, visit tree tops on a flying Oceanview and Waikare Roads and the other opposite the Red Cross Hall. the i-SITE Visitor Centre in fox zipline. View looking out across Onetangi Beach Oneroa village or call +64 ONETANGI BEACH (0)9 372 1234. Walking tracks Onetangi is Waiheke’s longest ocean beach and a • It takes 15 minutes to drive particularly beautiful part of the island. Onetangi Bay has from Oneroa to Onetangi, or CHURCH BAY CIRCUIT a long, white-sand beach that is ideal for walks, family about 1 ½-2 hours to cycle. Spectacular views, a special scenic reserve and an outings, safe swimming and picnics. There’s also a choice • You can’t beat local area of historical significance are features of this of cafés and restaurants. knowledge when it comes sometimes challenging 3 hour walk. Follow the beach to Waiheke Island. For more from Matiatia Wharf to the southern end, cross the information about what to stream and climb the hillside to the first track Palm Beach, one of Waiheke’s most popular swimming spots see and do, check out the intersection. i-SITE Visitor Centre in Oneroa village, call HEKERUA BAY TO PALM BEACH +64 (0)9 372 1234 or Shingle beaches and rocky pools are an attractive visit aucklandnz.com feature of this 2 hour walk. Hekerua Bay and Palm Beach are also popular swimming spots. Starting at the top of Goodwin Avenue and Queens Drive a concrete path zig-zags down through Watters Glen to Hekerua Bay. Turn hard-right from the end of the concrete path to access Te Aroha Avenue. The incline Kauri advice is gentle and grassed for 250 metres then becomes a Waiheke Island is free steep track with more than 100 steps. of kauri dieback disease. See page 6-7 to find out how you can help protect our kauri trees.

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Waiheke Island offers an irresistible combination of relaxation and adventure. Visit award-winning vineyards, olive groves and art galleries, and explore the golden sand beaches and walking tracks.

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STONY BATTER HISTORIC RESERVE Places to stay Stony Batter is renowned for its impressive tunnels and Waiheke’s charms are easily gun sites dating back to World War II. It was part of the worth a longer stay. There’s a Auckland coastal defence system, however fortunately wide range of accommodation Auckland was never attacked and the guns were never on the island, from luxury fired in anger. Aggregate used to build the tunnels was retreats to backpacker lodges. obtained locally from the impressive large volcanic For more accommodation boulders dotting the landscape that give Stony Batter its ideas, bookings and enquiries, name. Guided tours and information are available on site. contact the Waiheke Island A torch is essential for exploring underground tunnels. If i-SITE Visitor Centre on +64 (0)9 372 1234 or email you have extra time, you could include a walk from Stony [email protected] Batter to Opopo Bay. The walk takes about 1 ½ hours return and descends through farmland and native bush to We recommend that accommodation bookings are a gravel beach. Access to Stony Batter is from Man O’ made in advance during the War Bay Road. Allow at least 1 hour to explore the popular summer season. tunnels. See doc.govt.nz for more information. Find out more WHAKANEWHA REGIONAL PARK For more information about On the south side of Waiheke Island, Whakanewha walks on Waiheke Island visit Regional Park is known for its mature coastal forest, aucklandcouncil.govt.nz cascading streams and sweeping crescent-shaped beach, which is cut in two by a forest-covered headland. At high tide the water is shallow, warm and ideal for children.

Mountain biking tracks Onetangi Sports Park has three mountain biking tracks. With an exciting combination of bush and open sports fields, these tracks are suitable for new and experienced riders.

Looking back to the city over Matiatia Bay, Waiheke Island

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Defining the limit of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Getting there Great Park, Great Barrier Island - Aotea is one of If you’re from out of Auckland, the most tranquil and unspoilt places you’ll organise your transport to Barrier Great Barrier Island - Aotea Island - ever find. Itsgolden beaches, crystal clear before you arrange your waters and vast native forests are home to transport to Auckland. Visitors enjoying the snorkelling on Great Barrier – Aotea Transport to and from the Aotea a small population of permanent residents. island is regular but seasonal. Nature, in all its rugged beauty, is king here. About 700 people live permanently on Great Barrier Island - Aotea, including descendants of the Ngāti Wai The main airfield on the island Such is its feeling of splendid isolation is at Claris. (people). The Ngāti Maru iwi also share historic departs several times a day that the BBC chose to film its Castaway associations with the island. television series here. from Auckland Airport. Great From tramping through native forest to sea kayaking Barrier Airlines also operates around the coves and inlets of the island’s coast, there are daily services out of Auckland Airport and North Shore endless ways to explore this adventurer’s paradise. Inland, Airfield. well-formed tracks through the forest will lead you to SeaLink offers regular car secluded hot springs, swimming holes, waterfalls and and passenger ferry services historic kauri dams. between downtown Auckland Great Barrier Island - Aotea is a great place for bird and Tryphena. Fullers ferry watching, walking and tramping, golf, services are seasonal, with sailings commencing at boating, surfing, diving and fishing. Labour weekend, an annual There’s also a wide range of public holiday on the fourth accommodation on the island Monday of October. to suit all budgets. While the nightlife isn’t what usually Visitor information draws people to the island, a Check out the i-SITE Visitor well-earned drink at the end of the Centre at Claris Airport, day can be had in one of the call 0800 AUCKLAND (0800 282 552) or visit island’s pubs, cafés and aucklandnz.com bistros. There is also a privately operated information centre Waikaro Beach on Great Barrier Great Barrier Island - Aotea is about 30 minutes away by at , which provides Island – Aotea’s west coast plane from Auckland Airport or the North Shore Airfield. Department of Conservation and visitor The island is also served by a vehicle and passenger ferry information. Call +64 (0)9 from Wynyard Wharf in downtown Auckland and takes 429 0848. around four hours.

Clockwise from top: Banded rail (photo by Andris Apse), Tui, Kākā

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Essential information Great Barrier Island - Aotea • Great Barrier Island was • If you bring your dog to the named by Captain Cook for island, don’t forget to carry the barrier it forms between proof of registration and the Hauraki Gulf and the always check first with your open sea. As the island is accommodation provider. geographically isolated, Please keep your dog well there are some important away from pateke/brown things to keep in mind when teal. They are among the • Internet access and preparing to travel there to rarest ducks in the world cellphone coverage are ensure you have a safe and and are considered limited on some parts of the enjoyable trip. nationally vulnerable. Dogs island. There is excellent Vodafone coverage at Port • Transfer services and rental are prohibited on all FitzRoy with a 3G cellsite on vehicles are all readily Department of Conservation Kaikoura Island and available – advance public conservation land Telecom coverage in bookings are recommended. and must be kept on a lead Tryphena. Internet access Great Barrier Buses operates in public areas at all times and cellphone coverage are a service between Tryphena unless designated also available around the and Port FitzRoy all year, as otherwise. central part of the island. well as regular services in • The island has no mains Card phones can be found the southern part of the power, public water supply at the main settlements; it is island. Please note, timings or sewage system. Individual a toll call from Great Barrier may vary according to flight properties provide their own Island – Aotea to other parts times and bookings. and are powered by of Auckland. • As there are no banks or alternative energy systems • To help maintain the island’s ATMs on the island, it’s – mostly by generator or natural beauty please recommended that you take solar. As there is no street carefully dispose of all cash. New Zealand EFTPOS lighting it is advisable that rubbish. A rubbish barge is and credit card facilities are you bring a torch with you. located in Port FitzRoy available at a limited • There is a complete Harbour (for the number of commercial ban on fires during the convenience of boat 0 0.75 1.5 3 Kilometres outlets. summer months. Permits owners) through the are required at all other summer months till Easter. times, available from Household refuse and Auckland Council offices. Key to map recyclables can be dropped Public Conservation land DOC Campsites • Petrol and diesel are off at transfer points clearly Aotea Track DOC Huts available at Port FitzRoy visible at roadside locations. DOC tracks Information Wharf, • General stores are Legal and Formed Roads Airfield Wharf, Tryphena and Claris. located at Port FitzRoy, Other Tracks There are no facilities for Brown teal/pāteke Whangaparapara Reserve, This map is intended as a guide only. Those going tramping are advised to vehicles that require CNG use the appropriate topographical map. Not to be used for navigation. Claris, Pa Beach and © Department of Conservation (DOC) or LPG. Mulberry Grove, Tryphena. Walking track on Great Barrier Island - Aotea (photo by Terry Smith)

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Pied shag/käruhiruhi A view of Estuary Things to do from the top of Windy Canyon Waterfall on Warren’s Track The remoteness and rugged beauty of Great Barrier (photo by Andris Apse) (photo by Terry Smith) Island - Aotea makes the island the ideal place for a true escape. The island can be a relaxing haven to read a book and put your feet up while listening to native birds, or for the adventurous the untamed landscape is perfect for exploration. There is a range of walking tracks to discover the untouched wilderness and spectacular sightseeing amid canyons, valleys, native forest, mountains and coastline. Those with a love of the sea will find pristine surf beaches, dive spots, a range of charter boat options for fishing expeditions and beautiful bays and coves that can also be explored by kayak. People keen on wildlife will find a fascinating variety of native species, largely because this is one of the few places in New Zealand where many pests, including possums and stoats, have never reached. More than 50 threatened plants thrive here, as do many other threatened species including Hochstetter’s frog, chevron skink and pateke (brown teal).

The remoteness and rugged beauty of Great Barrier Island - Aotea makes the island the ideal place for a true escape.

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Palmers Beach, Great Barrier Island - Aotea (photo by Andris Apse)

The many walking tracks on Great Barrier Island – Aotea are the perfect way to discover the island’s untouched wilderness and magnificent landscapes, from forest-clad mountains to striking coastline.

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Visitor information There are also numerous popular annual festivals and Airlines and ferries will carry events held on the island. Visit aucklandnz.com for details bikes to the island along with and suggested itineraries or ideas on things to see and do. your luggage for an additional cost. Island buses will also Walking tracks carry your bikes for a small The walks on Great Barrier Island - Aotea are among the fee. Cycle helmets should be best in New Zealand. There’s more than 100 kilometres of worn at all times and suspension is recommended well-maintained tracks through magnificent scenery. for all tracks. While many walking experiences on the island are of tramping track standard and require a reasonable level of For more information about what to see and do on Great fitness, there are plenty of easier walking tracks too, Barrier Island - Aotea visit the including two of the tracks to the summit (the summit via i-SITE Visitor Centre at Claris Kaiaraara Track and the summit via Windy Canyon and Airport, call 0800 AUCKLAND Palmer’s Track). (0800 282 552) or visit aucklandnz.com Great Barrier Island - Aotea is a great place to undertake the challenge of a multi-day walk on the new Aotea Track Find out more or a casual 1 hour stroll. The 3 day Aotea Track includes a For more information about climb to the summit of Hirakimata/ Mt Hobson (621 walks on Great Barrier Island metres), the chance to see a piece of history at the old - Aotea visit doc.govt.nz kauri dam and an enjoyable stay in a Department of Conservation hut with views of the sunset over . Family-friendly tracks include a 1 hour easy walk to Kaitoke Hot Springs, or for the more adventurous a quick steep 10 minute climb up to the beautiful views from the Windy Canyon lookout. When walking these tracks beware of steep drop-offs. Choose a guided tour or explore the many walking tracks at your leisure.

Kauri advice Kauri dieback has been Pest advice found on Great Barrier Help protect Great Barrier Island - Aotea. See page Island - Aotea from pests. 6-7 to find out how you can See page 6 for details. help protect our kauri trees. The historical lower kauri dam

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AOTEA TRACK GLENFERN SANCTUARY WALKS The 25km Aotea Track loops the central mountainous Glenfern Sanctuary offers guided (2-3 hours) and area and is a manageable 3 day circuit for reasonably fit self-guided walks along Glenfern Walk, a well-formed beginner or experienced trampers. The track is a network track through native regenerating and old growth forest. of easy walking tracks, steep climbs, stairways and The walk incorporates a swing bridge into the canopy of a bridges. You will travel over a range of spectacular 400-year-old kauri tree. Learn about the restoration of landscapes: streams with beautiful native bush, tranquil Kotuku Peninsula Sanctuary (where more than 15,000 wetlands and forests of kauri, rimu and kahikatea, with trees have been planted) before heading up to Sunset their special plants and wildlife. Enjoy superb views as you Rock for arguably the best view on the island. On your follow the central ridge of the island. Explore the rich walk you may see giant weta, , a flock of history of Great Barrier Island - Aotea with sites such as brown teal, rare chevron skinks and other native birds. the Kaiaraara driving dam and tramline remnants. WARREN’S TRACK Quick facts: Beginning by the Port FitzRoy Department of • Aotea Track is a 2 night, 3 day walk and has Conservation area office, this is a 30 minute gentle graded alternative entry points. climb passing through a kauri plantation to a waterfall. There’s more than • There are two huts on the walk - Mt Heale and From the waterfall the return to the Department of 100 kilometres of Kaiaraara - both of which need to be booked Conservation office is 1 hour, or you can carry on well-maintained online at doc.govt.nz along the Bridle Track to Port FitzRoy. The tracks through • A detailed brochure on the Aotea Track is available stream has many deep pools that are ideal for magnificent scenery. swimming. for download at doc.govt.nz OLD LADY TRACK From Port FitzRoy you can take a 30 minute trip up a steep signposted track to Lookout Rock, where there are some great views of Port FitzRoy Harbour. The round trip takes approximately 90 minutes.

KAITOKE HOT SPRINGS TRACK A popular track off Whangaparapara Road. The 1 hour walk to the hot springs is on an easy, well-formed track that crosses the Kaitoke Stream and skirts the Kaitoke Swamp (all crossings are bridged). There are several pools for bathing but take care as the water can be hot. Do not put your head underwater.

Tranquil Port FitzRoy

Walking tracks on Great View from Mt Heale Hut Barrier Island - Aotea (photo by Andris Apse)

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Places to stay Mountain biking tracks Great Barrier Island - Aotea Great Barrier Island - Aotea offers impressive mountain has a range of accommodation biking for all levels and it’s an adventurous way to see available to suit all tastes. much of the island. The Department of Conservation has Demand for accommodation designed mountain biking areas on public conservation during the main summer holiday period is high, so be land. There are two designated mountain bike routes – the sure to book in advance. Forest Road and the road to Haratonga. Other tracks are Camping is permitted only in not specifically designed for mountain bike use. designated camping grounds. Many roads would be considered off-road cycling to most Marae-based Māori cultural experiences, day meetings and people, as there are some challenging drop-offs and steep overnight stays are available at hill sections. Care should be taken when riding, especially Motairehe marae +64 (0)9 during the busy holiday season. 429 0790 and Kawa marae +64 (0)9 429 0070. TRACK For more accommodation This is a mainly downhill track starting from Windy ideas, bookings and enquiries Hill. Although largely downhill it is an intermediate to call 0800 AUCKLAND advanced track with some steep technical sections. (0800 282 552) or email Suspension is recommended. Ride time is approximately [email protected]. 45 minutes. Department of Conservation: There are six Department TE AHUMATA (WHITE CLIFFS) LOOP of Conservation (DOC) This track is intermediate in difficulty, with some technical campsites on Great Barrier sections. Suspension is recommended. Some carrying of Island - Aotea: Akapoua Bay, the bike is required but the new bridge makes this ride Awana Beach, , very pleasurable. This track can be slippery after rain. Ride Medlands Beach, Whangapoua, and The Green campsite time is 1 to 1 ½ hours. at Whangaparapara Harbour. DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION FORESTRY ROAD DOC’s campsites have tap water, cold showers and This track is rated intermediate to advanced in difficulty toilets. Rates are $10 per adult and has great access to the walking tracks and hut per night. Child rates apply. at Kaiaraara. Ride time is approximately Kaiaraara Hut has 24 beds, 2 to 3 hours. a woodstove, water and toilet. Mt Heale Hut has 20 beds, gas cooking facilities, water and toilet. Rates for both huts are $15 per adult per night. Child rates apply. Both huts and all campgrounds Arriving at Port FitzRoy can be booked online at Kaiaraara Track swingbridge doc.govt.nz (photo by Andris Apse)

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 32 Rangitoto Island 33

An of the Auckland landscape, Getting there Rangitoto icon Rangitoto Island has long been a favourite Fullers operates daily ferry day trip and boating destination for services from downtown Island Auckland and Devonport. Aucklanders and tourists alike. The 600-year-old dormant volcano’s history Find out more includes being used as a holiday destination Read about the restoration of Rangitoto and Motutapu at complete with swimming pools, tennis doc.govt.nz courts and baches, and as an observation Highlights post during World War II – you can still visit • Rangitoto is home to the the bunker at the summit. world’s largest pohutukawa See if you can spot recent arrivals to the island, including forest. saddleback, bellbird and kākāriki. These birds are able to • The island is the youngest call Rangitoto home thanks to a major restoration project and largest of the Auckland by the Department of Conservation that removed the last region’s 48 volcanoes. pests from the island. Rangitoto is also a great place to • See the amazing panoramic spot unusual plants, including a strange hybrid of views of the Hauraki Gulf pohutukawa and northern rata. and from While you’re waiting for the ferry, check out the the summit. unique piece of kiwiana that is the museum at restored Bach 38 near the main wharf. See rangitoto.org for opening times.

Early origins Māori know the island as ‘Te Rangi i totongia a Tamatekapua’ – the day the blood of Tamatekapua was shed. Tamatekapua, chief of the Arawa canoe that Rangitoto Island, More recently, Rangitoto Island attracts visitors interested Auckland’s most iconic arrived around 1350, fought a major battle with Tainui at natural landmark in its geography, hiking tracks and native wildlife. While Islington Bay and lost. Māori have a long association with it’s not a walk for the faint-hearted, the hike to the summit Rangitoto, and watched it erupt from nearby Motutapu, is family friendly. but did not live here because of the arid, rocky terrain. Keep an eye out for the track to the lava caves on your Ancient burial caves served as a resting place for bones way up, though you may need a torch to explore them brought from neighbouring Motutapu.

with the kids. The 360-degree views from the top of The boardwalk to Rangitoto’s summit Rangitoto are spectacular, reaching across the sparkling Pest advice The Fullers Rangitoto Volcanic Explorer blue waters and emerald islands of the Hauraki Gulf to the Tour road train Help keep Rangitoto rugged horizons of the Waitakere Ranges in the west and The panoramic views from Rangitoto’s pest-free. See page 6 for in the east. summit are breathtaking details.

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 34 Motutapu Island 35

Rangitoto Island Motutapu Motutapu is a favourite hiker’s destination and is attached to Rangitoto Island by a Island causeway established during World War II. Motutapu Wreck Boulder Island Bay Bay Motutapu is mainly pasture land and Gardiner Gap

Boulder/ Wreck BayTrack looks strikingly different from its neighbour Rangitoto.

Wharf McKenzie Bay Summit Rd

Summit Rd Islington Bay Boat Ramp Summit (Yankee Wharf) McKenzie Bay Rd

Wilsons Park Lava Caves Controlled Mine Track Base Site (WWII)

Summit Track

Coastal Track Islington Bay Rd

Public Conservation land DOC Tracks Legal and Formed Roads Information Shelter Toilets Wharf Information Flax Point

Copyright DOC.

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Public Conservation land Visitor informationDOC Tracks Legal and Formed Roads Picturesque Home Bay, Motutapu Island Thanks to the hard work of the Motutapu Restoration The walk from RangitotoInformation ShelterTour to the island’s summit. from downtown Auckland Wharf to the summit takesToilets This guided tour takes you up twice daily. Allow 4 to Brown (photo by Rod Morris) Trust – who have planted more than half a million trees Information around 1 hour each way and to the base of the summit on 5 hours. – there are pockets of native bush to explore on the island. Copyright DOC. winds through lava fields and a 4WD road train through Browns Island Now that Motutapu is pest-free, you’re much more likely Guided kayaking(Motukorea) tours are 0 400 800 1,200 1,6002,000 Metres forest. Another option is the rugged lava crops and native also available to Rangitoto to come across native birds. Endangered takahe now call coastal track from the wharf bush. From here it’s a short Island. Book one of the Motutapu home, and if you’re staying overnight you may to Islington Bay, which takes walk along a wooden sunset tours to experience even hear a kiwi. around 2 ½ hours each way. boardwalk with steps to the something special. Make sure you bring very top. Find out more about On Motutapu there are great opportunities Visit aucklandnz.com for something to eat and drink this unique volcano from the to explore World War II bunkers, tunnels and gun more information. sturdy shoes, sunscreen and knowledgeable guides who emplacements and spectacular views of the city a hat. provide fascinating and Hauraki Gulf. commentary on the island’s Alternatively, take the Fullers fiery past. The tour departs Rangitoto Volcanic Explorer

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 36 Motutapu Island 37 Motutapu Island

Public Conservation land Getting there DOC Tracks You can walk to Motutapu Legal and Formed Roads from Rangitoto using the DOC Campsites Lookout causeway that links the Toilets two islands. Information Copyright DOC. Fullers provides a scheduled ferry service to Home Bay (Motutapu) two to three times a month to coincide with the Trust’s volunteer days. Ask at any Auckland i-SITE for information about boat charters. Walkers take in the views from the headland overlooking Home Bay Places to stay The Department of The popular 40 minute Home Bay to Northern Junction Conservation’s campsite at Home Bay on Motutapu has walk climbs through regenerating forest to a group of tap water and toilets and rates military sites. Make sure you pack a picnic and your are $6 per adult per night. swimwear to make the most out of your trip to Motutapu. Children’s rates apply. To book Come prepared as there are no shops or transport on the online go to doc.govt.nz island and limited drinking water. Accommodation is also available at the Motutapu Early origins Outdoor Education Camp. Motutapu Island is important to the Tainui iwi, particularly For details, go to Ngāi Tai. Māori were living on Motutapu before Rangitoto motutapucamp.org.nz exploded from the sea some 600 years Find out more ago, and footprints of people and Read about Motutapu’s dogs are preserved in solidified farming and military history at layers of ash. doc.govt.nz

Pest advice Help keep Motutapu pest-free. See page 6 for details. Saddleback/tīeke (photo by 0 200 400 600 800 1,000 Metres Martin Sanders)

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 38 Motutapu and Rangitoto Island 39

Motutapu’s rolling hills and pasture land are remarkably different from the rugged lava fields and pohutukawa forests of its neighbour, Rangitoto Island.

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 40 Motuihe Island 41

Motuihe Island is another pest-free island Motuihe Island Public Conservation land Motuihe DOC Tracks with some of the best sandy beaches of Legal and Formed Roads Island the inner Hauraki Gulf islands. There truly DOC Campsites Information is something for everyone on Motuihe – Toilets Copyright DOC. swimming, walking and tramping, camping, early settler and indigenous heritage sites.

Beautiful views across the gulf from Motuihe Island

A popular walk on the island is from Motuihe Wharf to Pa Highlights Point – a 30 minute coastal walk with views of Ocean • Pack a picnic and your Beach and Waiheke Island. swimwear and enjoy the Native flora and fauna flourishes due to the conservation peace and solitude of the 0 100 200 300 400 500 Metres beautiful white sandy efforts of the Department of Conservation, Motuihe Trust beaches. and the community. Motuihe Island is home to kiwi, • Children will love exploring kākāriki, saddleback and other native and endangered the many rock pools at species including many shore birds. Getting there Visitor information Find out more low tide. Early origins Visitors can get to Motuihe The Department of Read about Motuihe’s history Conservation’s campsite on as a quarantine station at Māori know the island as Te Motu-a-Ihenga. Māori Island by private boat, charter or passenger ferry. Visit Motuihe has tap water (which doc.govt.nz tradition tells of a long history of settlement on Motuihe must be boiled or treated) and and of gourd and taro cultivations. John Logan Campbell fullers.co.nz, 360discovery. co.nz or watertaxis.org for toilets. Rates are $6 per adult Pest advice and William Brown bought the island from Māori in 1839, ferry details. Ask at any per night. Children’s rates Help keep Motuihe initiating more than a century of farming. The island has Auckland i-SITE Visitor Centre apply. To book online, go to pest-free. See page 6 for also been a quarantine station, prisoner of war camp and about the guided walks by the doc.govt.nz details. a naval training base. Motuihe Trust.

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 42 Browns Island - Motukorea 43

Browns Located in close proximity to the eastern suburbs of central Auckland, Browns Island - Island - Motukorea is the ideal picnic destination Motukorea for Aucklanders. While visitor facilities are minimal, there are historic sites, a volcanic cone to explore and beautiful sandy beaches.

Browns Island - Motukorea began life as a volcano, which Getting there Visitor information Find out more erupted between 10,000 and 20,000 years ago and Visitors can hire or paddle There are no visitor facilities Read about how Browns evidence of Māori settlement and cultivation dates back their own kayak from on Browns Island - Island - Motukorea was once 800 years. Remains of stone-walled gardens, still in use Auckland’s eastern beaches Motukorea. Make sure you extensively settled and when the first Europeans visited in 1820, are found in the to Browns Island - Motukorea come prepared and take all cultivated by Māori at valley southeast of the cone. In more recent history, the in about 30 minutes. There is rubbish with you when you doc.govt.nz Paddle out to Browns Island, island was bought by two colonists, John Logan Campbell no public transport to Browns leave. just 30 minutes from Auckland’s eastern beaches and William Brown, who farmed pigs and vegetables for Island - Motukorea, however Visitors can access the supply to the newly settled Auckland. In the 100 years there is a sheltered anchorage Korea/oystercatcher summit from Crater Bay. since, the island has been owned by various families. for boats and yachts at Crater Bay. In July 1955 the island was gifted to Auckland and is now managed by the Department of Conservation. Motukorea is named after one of its frequent Pest advice visitors, the korea/oystercatcher. It is also home Help keep Browns Island to the threatened . - Motukorea pest-free. See Explore the island’s volcanic cone page 6 for details.

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 44 Tiritiri Matangi Island 45

Tiritiri Matangi Island is a Getting there Tiritiri renowned wildlife sanctuary 30 kilometres north of central 360 Discovery runs ferries Auckland. Visit Tiritiri Matangi for the every Wednesday to Sunday Matangi and on most public holidays Island incredible birdsong and the possibility of from downtown Auckland meeting several of New Zealand’s native and Gulf Harbour. Book well ahead in summer as ferries and most endangered species in the wild. are often full.

Visitor information Food cannot be purchased on Visitors looking at penguin burrow the island, however lunch can (photo by Mario Marzuki) be ordered when booking the ferry, or buy food on-board or Sixty per cent of the island is now forested, providing food bring a picnic for the beach. and habitat for takahe, , saddleback, kākāriki, Make sure that the food is kokako, kiwi, , robins, and brown teal, sealed in a rodent-proof among others. The wetapunga – New container. Hobbs Beach, just Zealand’s largest insect – has been a 10 minute walk from the recently released on the island. Tiritiri Wharf, is a great place for a picnic and a swim. Guided tours offered by the Supporters for a small cost are a Places to stay great way for visitors to explore The Department of the island. The tours are Conservation has a 15 bed bunkhouse on Tiritiri Matangi approximately 90 minutes long available for overnight stays. and the guides will help identify the Facilities include a gas stove, various species that you come across and microwave and fridge and highlight the best spots to see wildlife. rates are $30 per adult per night. Children’s rates apply. To book online, go to doc.govt.nz Historical lighthouse Tiritiri Matangi is one of the most successful community- (photo by Grant Reaburn) Find out more led conservation projects in the world. Since 1984, To read about Tiritiri thousands of volunteers led by the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi’s lighthouse, the Matangi have planted more than a quarter of a million oldest working lighthouse in native trees, transforming the island’s barren pasture New Zealand, go to into forest. doc.govt.nz

Kākāriki, Stitchbird/hihi

Kokako (photo by Kay Milton)

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 46 Tiritiri Matangi Island 47

Takahe encounters The easiest way to the historic lighthouse and visitor Tiritiri Matangi Island (photo by Mitsuro Aoyagi) Public Conservation land centre is the 30 minute Wattle Track – a baby-buggy- DOC Tracks View of Hobbs Beach and friendly walk with excellent opportunities for bird Legal and Formed Roads wharf (photo by Mike Fuller) Wooded Island Lookout watching. The 1 hour Kawerau Track travels through Information mature coastal forest and pohutukawa trees to Toilets Copyright DOC. reach the visitor centre – a popular place for Northeast lunch and an almost guaranteed encounter Bay with an endangered takahe.

Northeast Bay Track Early origins

Ngati Paoa Pohutukawa Cove

According to Māori tradition, Tiritiri Track Matangi is one of ‘Ngā Poitō ō Te Kupenga ō Toi Te Huatahi’- the floats of an ancestral fishing net of Toi. The East Coast Kawerau people were the first to settle, Track building the Tiritiri Matangi Pa (village) from Northwest Point Ridge Road which the island takes its name. Ngāti Paoa also Totara Tk moved here and constructed a pa (Papakura) on the Fishermans Bay island’s northern tip. The two tribes fought continuously Kawerau Tk East Coast over the fishing grounds and, in the end, Papakura Pa was Ridge Road Track destroyed. Today, Te Kawerau a Maki, Ngāti Paoa and Tiritiri Matangi Pa Track Emergency Cable Road Cable Track Landing Ngāti Wai maintain links with the island. Paa Point Hobbs Beach Hobbs Track

Hobbs Beach Track Track Tiritiri Matangi East Coast

is one of the most Road

Grahams Road Lighthouse successful Wattle Track Wharf area Tiritiri Wharf community-led Visitors Centre conservation and shop Chinamans projects in the Bay Wattle Track world.

Pest advice Help keep Tiritiri Matangi pest-free. See page 6 for details. 0 100 200 300 400 500 Metres

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 48 Rotoroa Island 49

Rotoroa Island is the Getting there Rotoroa newest addition to the collection of islands in the Hauraki 360 Discovery runs seasonal Gulf that are open to the public. Rotoroa ferries via the Coromandel Island Ferry Service with sailings Island has a fascinating past. Owned by every weekend and weekday the Salvation Army since 1907, Rotoroa during summer. There is a wharf at Home Bay for private was one of New Zealand’s longest boats and charters. Visit running addiction treatment centres until 360dicovery.co.nz for ferry philanthropists Neal and Annette Plowman details and bookings. negotiated a lease to turn the island into Visitor information a heritage and conservation park for the Barbecues, fresh water, toilets people of New Zealand. and picnic spots are all available at Home Bay – the island’s main settlement. There are marked walking trails exploring the island, though camping is not permitted. The island’s exhibition centre has a display tracing Rotoroa’s history.

Places to stay Rotoroa has a limited number of holiday homes that have fantastic views and are renovated to a high standard in vibrant vintage style with all the comforts of home. They are rated Qualmark 4-star plus (Holiday Homes). Chalet style accommodation is due to open in 2013. Discover the fascinating A conservation programme began in 2008 and includes history of Rotoroa Island Book accommodation well in the revegetation of the island with 450,000 native plants, advance at rotoroa.org.nz Stay in style at Serenity, as well as the restoration of significant buildings including a home-away-from-home on Rotoroa Island the chapel and jail, the opening of a state-of-the-art exhibition centre and the provision of public amenities. Beautiful views over Ladies Bay, Rotoroa Island All these features make Rotoroa Island an excellent place Pest advice for a day trip, with plenty to explore. Help protect Rotoroa Island from pests. See page 6 for details.

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 50 Motuora Island 51

Motuora Island lies between the Motuora Island Motuora Snake Gully Whangaparaoa Peninsula and Kawau Island Island. Visitors can wander through the

regenerating bush or swim at one of the Home Bay island’s gorgeous sandy beaches. Campsite Home Bay Pohutukawa Bay

0 100 200 300 400500 Metres Still Bay Macrocarpa Bay

Public Conservation land DOC Tracks DOC Campsites Lookout Toilets

Rocky Bay Copyright DOC.

What makes Motuora special, apart from its beautiful Early origins Getting there Places to stay coastline, secluded picnic spots and clear waters, is that it Public Conservation land Transport to Motuora Island is Motuora has a pa (village) at its southwest end but The DepartmentDOC Tracks of has remained free of animal pests despite the island’s long by kayak, private boat or charter. otherwise shows little archaeological evidence of past Conservation’sDOC Campsites campsite on history of occupation and farming. The Motuora Motuora hasLookout tap water, toilets Māori occupation – although sites may have disappeared Toilets Visitor information Restoration Society manages the island with the and cold showers and rates when much of the island was subsequently cultivated. Copyright DOC. Visitors are welcome on Department of Conservation (DOC). A community are $6 per adult per night. Today, Ngāti Paoa and Ngāti Manuhiri, a hapū of Motuora Island and it’s easy replanting programme is now almost complete and the Children’s rates apply. Ngāti Wai, maintain links with the island. to explore with a network of transfer of birds, insects and reptiles to the island has There is also a five-bed walking tracks and some great already begun. bach with a cooker, toilet sandy beaches for safe and cold shower and rates swimming. Bring a picnic as Motuora Island has an interesting role to play in boosting are $51.50 per night. there are plenty of lovely our population of kiwi through Operation Nest Egg. This is picnic spots on the island. Motuora campsite and For more information or a project where DOC and Auckland Zoo take newly main beach booking enquiries, visit hatched kiwi and introduce them to predator-free Kiwi on Motuora Island doc.govt.nz Pest advice Motuora Island. Once the kiwi are big enough to handle Find out more Help keep Motuora predators, they are reintroduced to the Northland bush pest-free. See page 6 for areas from where they originated. To help the kiwi Find out about Motuora’s kiwi details. population grow, please leave pets and pests at home. population at doc.govt.nz

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 52 Kawau Island 53

Kawau Kawau Island, one of the largest islands in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, is located to Island the east of Warkworth. Kawau’s chequered history presents a mixture of attractions and activities for visitors to see and experience.

Kawau Island is a great Kawau has a small permanent population and is very fishing spot popular for holiday visitors thanks to crystal clear water, The crystal clear waters excellent fishing and sheltered anchorages. of Mansion House Bay, Kawau Island In 1862 Kawau was bought by the controversial and very influential politician Sir . Visitors can walk through Mansion House, Sir George Grey’s former home, and the gardens and landscape he created. Kawau was one of the earliest mining ventures in New Zealand, with Pest advice copper being mined from 1844 until 1855, and sites from Help protect Kawau Island the historical copper industry are still visible. from pests. See page 6 for details.

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 54 Kawau Island 55

Getting there Water taxis, cruises and charters are available from Sandspit with Kawau Cruises.

Visitor information Enjoy a leisurely day of history Kawau Island and walking. The Department of Conservation-managed Kawau Island Historic Reserve covers 10 per cent of the island, and is where most of the attractions can be found. The reserve has a network of easy walking tracks ranging from 30 minutes to several hours. The walk along the Kererū (photo by Herb Christophers) Redwood Track and Coppermine Track starts at Grey was an avid collector of animals and plants and is Mansion House, travels responsible for the eclectic collection of species on the through exotic forest and ends up at the lookout with views island, including wallabies and peacocks, which are still of the ruins of the old there today. The island is also home to kiwi, weka and sandstone engine house (50 other protected wildlife. minutes return). You can extend this walk to reach the Early origins coppermine on the coast (2 Kawau’s first settlers are thought to be descendants of hours return). early Polynesian ancestor Toi te Huatahi. By the early The Mansion House café is 1600s, battles over Kawau’s bountiful fishing grounds open daily during holiday were in full swing. By the time Europeans arrived on the periods and summer weekends. Phone +64 (0)9 422 8903 to island in the 1820s the island was no longer occupied. check opening times.

Find out more Find out more about the recent restoration of the coppermine at doc.govt.nz Public Conservation land DOC Tracks Legal and Formed Roads Lookout Picnic Site Toilets

Copyright DOC.

0 100 200 300 400 500 Metres

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 56 Marine Reserves 57

TĀWHARANUI MARINE RESERVE The Tāwharanui Marine Park was established in 1981 and became a full Marine Reserve in 2011. The reserve is situated 90km north of Auckland. A range of habitats can be seen, including rock platforms, reefs with overhangs, tunnels and caves and fine surf beaches. Reef See orca in their protected habitats areas offer excellent snorkelling in suitable sea conditions. Reserves MOTU MANAWA-POLLEN ISLAND CAPE RODNEY-OKAKARI POINT MARINE RESERVE MARINE RESERVE Motu Manawa-Pollen Island safeguards Better known as Goat Island Marine Reserve, some 500 hectares of the inner reaches Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Marine Reserve of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour. It is a popular destination for diving, snorkelling provides rich feeding grounds for white- and a picnic lunch. As New Zealand’s first faced heron, pukeko, spotless crake and marine reserve it offers swimmers and divers the endangered banded rail. a variety of habitats to view below the surface. Rocky shores, sandflats, reefs, TE MATUKU Marine Reserves underwater cliffs and canyons, all provide MARINE RESERVE spectacular viewing of marine life. Te Matuku Marine Reserve protects one of Get up close and personal Marine reserves are special areas that protect marine For those visitors not inclined to swim to the colourful sea life Waiheke Island’s biodiversity and allow sealife to flourish. among the sealife, a glass-bottomed boat largest and least Gannet cruise provide a close up look at stingrays, Five of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park’s six marine reserves disturbed estuaries. colourful fish and the occasional shark. are found in the . Each marine reserve It also extends into Ask about the cruise at your nearest i-SITE protects what was once common habitat around the deeper water beyond Visitor Centre. Hauraki Gulf. Habitats vary from rocky shores exposed Passage Rock. at low tide to deep reefs, underwater cliffs, canyons and LONG BAY–OKURA MARINE RESERVE sandflats. The Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve Visitors are encouraged to explore the marine reserves in protects the coastline north of central the Hauraki Gulf any way they wish without negatively Auckland. It’s a popular summer impacting on the marine life. Swimming, snorkelling, destination for Aucklanders looking for diving, boating, kayaking, exploring rock pools and even great swimming and picnic spots and to building sand castles are favourite pastimes for thousands explore the many walking tracks. Kayak the tranquil waters of the gulf’s of visitors each year. marine reserves

Dolphins at play

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 58 Volunteering in Auckland 59

There are lots of opportunities to volunteer for the Department of Conservation and community groups Volunteering in throughout the wider Auckland region, both on the mainland and out on the beautiful islands of the Auckland Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Whether you want to get your hands dirty and pull out some weeds, or help out with specialist skills such as photography, carpentry or administration, there’s sure to be a way for you to get involved. There are plenty of organised volunteering opportunities to choose from, ranging in length from just one day to full week-long stays on remote islands. The kinds of things you Volunteers hard at work can get involved in vary from beginner activities such as tree planting, beach clean ups and building maintenance projects through to complex tasks that require high fitness levels, such as bird monitoring on Little Barrier Island - Te Hauturu-o-Toi. The many destinations include Tiritiri Matangi Island, Motutapu Island and Mansion House on Kawau Island. Free accommodation is usually included. It could be a delightful 1950s cottage like the one on Motuora Island, or even the old shearer’s quarters on Motutapu Island. The Department of Conservation and many different community groups offer volunteer opportunities, and more information can be found at doc.govt.nz/volunteer. Many book out early, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Volunteers help with planting on Motuora Island

Volunteering Links to volunteer opportunities can be found at doc.govt.nz/volunteer

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com 60 Birds of the Hauraki Gulf 61

Birds of the Hauraki Gulf Landbirds Seabirds

Saddleback / Tīeke kākā Black backed gull / Karoro Australasian gannet / Tākapu

White-faced heron Bellbird / Korimako / Matuku-moana NZ Storm petrel Caspian tern / Taranui

White-faced storm petrel Fantail / Pīwakawaka Brown teal / Pāteke / Takahikare-moana Fluttering shearwater / Pakahā

Variable oystercatcher / Tōrea Kingfisher / Kōtare Pied shag / Kāruhiruhi Buller’s shearwater

Image credits Image credits Bellbird, Variable oystercatcher, Black backed gull, Blue penguin: DOC Kingfisher, Kākāriki: DOC Australasian gannet, White-faced Saddleback: Martin Sanders storm petrel: Suzi Phillips North island kaka: Peter Reese NZ storm petrel, Caspian tern, Fluttering shearwater, Pied shag: Brent Stephenson White faced heron: Art Polkanov Buller’s shearwater, Cook’s petrel: Fantail: David Mudge Roger McNeill Brown teal: JL Kendrick Tui: Tui De Roy

Red-crowned parakeet / Kākāriki Tūī Cook’s petrel / Tītī Blue penguin / Kororā

0800 AUCKLAND aucklandnz.com aucklandnz.com