aBOUT Tiritiri Matangi
a stunning open Bird Sanctuary
Surrender your senses to the beauty and magic of Tiritiri Matangi Island, situated in the Hauraki Gulf and only a 75minute ferry trip from Auckland via Gulf Harbour. From the moment you step onto the island to the moment you leave, you will be entranced by the serenade of gentle birdsong and the lush native bush. Tiritiri Matangi is one of the world’s most successful volunteer conservation projects. It has been re-vegetated with around 300,000 native trees and consequently 12 of New Zealand’s endangered birds and 3 reptile species have been re-introduced.
Tiritiri Matangi, meaning “tossed by the wind”, is an Open Scientific Reserve managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) in partnership with the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi Inc. The “open sanctuary” status allows 150 ferry visitors daily from Wednesday to Sunday onto the island. Here they can witness first hand some of New Zealand’s rarest inhabitants in a natural and protected environment. Visitors can have the opportunity to stay on the island overnight by booking through the Department of Conservation. This experience is truly unique, observing New Zealand’s nocturnal wildlife emerging as the sun goes down, wildlife such as the Little Blue Penguin (the world’s smallest penguin), the Little Spotted Kiwi, and the Tuatara.
What to bring
- A sunhat and sunscreen
- Plenty of water, snacks and lunch (there are no shops on the island but you can buy provisions on the ferry)
- Wear sturdy walking shoes
- A light rain jacket, swimwear and towel depending on the conditions
Exploring the island
There are numerous walking tracks throughout the island which vary in length and demand different fitness levels. Forested walking tracks are well established with board walks meandering through coastal forest. Other walking tracks skirt the perimeter of the island and pathways and roads weave through the island’s interior. All are clearly signposted. Please stay on the pathways and walking tracks, as even the most delicate of steps could damage the natural ecosystem that has developed or disturb a ground nesting bird.
For more information about Tiritiri Matangi walking tracks please ask for the brochure produced and sold by the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi.
Guided walks of Tirirtiri
The Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi are extremely enthusiastic about sharing, with all visitors to the Island, the wealth of knowledge they have accumulated about Tiritiri Matangi over the years. For a small additional fee of $5 per person you can experience an interesting day of learning about the exquisite bird life, natural surrounds, revegetation and history of Tiritiri Matangi. Your guide will highlight the best spots to see various wildlife on the island, and will help you to identify birdcalls and sounds which echo through the trees. A day on Tiritiri Matangi is extraordinary, however a day on Tiritiri with one of the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi as your guide, will make your day exceptional.
When booking your trip to Tiritiri Matangi please specify to Ticket Office Staff that you wish to have a guided walk so that enough guides can be provided on the day.
Help look after the island
Important Information for Tiritiri Matangi
Tiritiri Matangi Island is a wildlife sanctuary; it is vital that it remains pest-free. Before you depart on the vessel please check your bags for rodents and insects and ensure your footwear, clothing and bags are clean and free of seeds. Please ensure your lunch is packed in a rodent proof container, preferably hard plastic. No open bags or boxes, all should be sealed/ zipped closed. Chilli bins and zipped packs are fine, open shopping bags are not. If you have any doubts or questions about your packed items, please ask sales staff or boat crew to advise.
On arrival at the island, you will be met by one of the friendly DOC Rangers, who will outline the rules and regulations to ensure the Island remains
pest-free and the wildlife remains unharmed. Please respect and obey these rules at all times.
Remember...
Please note there is no food available for purchase on the island. Occasionally weather conditions prohibit 360 Discovery from travelling to the island … please call 0800 FANTAIL (0800 326 8245) after 7:00am on the day of your trip for confirmation.
