Tiritiri Matangi is an island and nature reserve in the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland in New Zealand. It is 30 km NE of Auckland and 4 km from Whangaparaoa Peninsula.
Tiritiri Matangi is one of only two scientific reserves in New Zealand that are open to the public. It has been created as a predator-free sanctuary to enable endangered species to thrive. There are 78 species of birds that have been seen on or near Tiritiri Matangi. These include little spotted kiwi, takahe, kokako, stitchbird, tui, saddleback, North Island robin, brown teal, bellbird and fantail. The island is a highlight for birdwatchers. The island is 220 hectares in size. Farming destroyed most of the native bush during the last century. Since being placed under the care of the Department of Conservation, volunteers have planted between 250,000 and 300,000 trees which has forested about 60% of the island. The other 40% remains as grassland for the takahe. The island is rubbish free. Take out what you bring in. There are NO dustbins. There are toilets on the ferry, at the shop/lighthouse and at Hobb's Beach on the island. Smoking is NOT allowed except at the wharf and the lighthouse. Take the butts home with you. Animals are not allowed. There is a limit of 150 visitors a day. Remember a hat, sunblock, some warm clothes and a rain jacket. Binoculars are useful for bird viewing.
The stunning views over the Gulf, plant and bird life and the lighthouse . Dolphins, stingrays and orca are often seen near the wharf.
- There are a number of walks, which range up to 4–5 hours. A brochure that includes a detailed map can be purchased for $1 from the shop, the Fuller's ferry ticket office or en route on the ferry.
- Walk up to the lighthouse. Built in 1864, it is one of the oldest in New Zealand and the only one easily accessible to the public. It is 21 meters tall. The Xenon gas lamp installed in 1965 was reputed to be the brightest in the S. Hemisphere. It has been replaced by a quartz iodine light. The lighthouse is now fully automated. Solar power is used.
A shop near the lighthouse sells souvenirs, cold drinks and complimentary tea and coffee, but no food. It accepts cash or credit cards but EFTPOS is not available. All profits support the conservation effort.
Bring your own. All food must be packed in sealed boxes . NO plastic bags. This is to keep the island rodent free.
- Return to Auckland
- Great Barrier Island
- Waiheke Island