Auckland's Hauraki Gulf Islands
Auckland's Hauraki Gulf Islands are scenic gems, offering visitors a unique chance to experience native flora and fauna. They are easily accessible by ferry, with services departing from Downtown Auckland at the Ferry Building on Quay Street.
Special legislation integrates management of the islands, coastline and waters of the Gulf. Several island reserves protect some of New Zealand's rarest wildlife. Visitors are welcome to explore Tiritiri Matangi and Great Barrier islands. Other popular Hauraki Gulf islands are Rangitoto, Motutapu and Kawau. Three marine reserves protect the Gulf's rich marine life. At Cape Rodney–Okakari Marine Reserve, visitors can snorkel or dive among the incredible diversity of fish that flourish in these protected waters. Dolphin and whale watching cruises operate on the Gulf, which is also hugely popular for sea kayaking and sailing, be it for leisure or racing.
Islands Include:
- Rangitoto Island
The Auckland icon is known for its unique scoria landscape and native bush. The island has well-formed tracks (many built by convict labour) and boardwalks lead through the mangrove swamp and into the bush-clad exterior. The summit (259 metres) provides stunning 360 degree views of the harbour and city skyline, and an explorer train tours to the summit.
- Waiheke Island
A popular holiday resort and beauty spot with sandy beaches, bush-clad hills and lively village centres. The island is renowned for its arts and crafts scene, and its many boutique vineyards. Island Explorer tour buses meet the ferry and provide sightseeing tours of the vineyards, beaches and art centres.
- Tiritiri Matangi
Planted in more than 3 million native trees, this open bird sanctuary is home to threatened native species including the saddleback, stitchbird, takahe and kokako. Tiritiri Matangi has the oldest lighthouse in the Hauraki Gulf and is managed by the Department of Conservation.
- Kawau Island
This scenic island has a range of walking tracks leading to Maori Pa sites, safe swimming beaches and old mines. Visitors can pay a small entrance fee to walk around Mansion House, the stately residence of NZ's former Governor, Sir George Grey.
- Great Barrier Island
By ferry 2.5hrs, from Auckland, rugged Great Barrier offers beautiful beaches, native bush and natural hot pools. The island is home to the historic remains of copper and silver mines, shipwrecks, a whaling station, timber mills and kauri dams. You may also fly to the Barrier.
- For information on the Hauraki Gulf Islands, visit the Department of Conservation
Ferry Services
- Fullers Ferries
Services to Devonport, Kawau, Rangitoto, Great Barrier, Tiritiri Matangi and Waiheke Islands, with tour options available.
- Sealink
SeaLink operates car and passenger ferry services to Great Barrier and Waiheke Islands.
- Kawau Kat
A service to Kawau Island (daily except Tues & Thursday) departing from Sandspit at Warkworth.