Tiritiri Matangi Must-Do's

> Native Bird Sanctuary - For something special, a 75-minute ferry trip from downtown Auckland deposits nature lovers at Tiritiri Matangi, an island sanctuary for New Zealand native birds. Tiri, as it’s known by locals, is also home to a spectacular lighthouse and beaches, with walking tracks to the Visitor Centre ranging from 15 minutes to two hours.

> Snorkelling - Don’t forget to pack your snorkels! Excellent snorkelling is found on the eastern side of the island. Walk to Northeast Bay and snorkel out to Wooded Island or head for the rocks off Hobbs Beach, close to the wharf.

Tiritiri Matangi Island © Mark Meredith

Motutapu Must-Do's

> Historic Landscape - Connected to Rangitoto Island by a small causeway, Motutapu is 178 million years old, making it one of the oldest land masses in the Hauraki Gulf. Its varied history covers extensive Māori settlement, Victorian picnic parties and a WWII base.

> The Motutapu Walkway - Make your way from Islington Bay on Rangitoto Island, across the causeway to Home Bay and Emu Bay on this undulating farmland walk. Taking roughly one to one-and-a-half hours.

> Birdwatching - Following the world’s largest island pesteradication programme, this is a fine place to admire a flurry of native birds including the rare and beautiful tīeke.

> Home Bay Conservation Campsite - Thanks to DOC, you can camp overnight right by the beach,as long as you’re prepared to carry all your gear from the Rangitoto ferry terminal (or book a water taxi/ commandeer a boat).

TOP TIP: Intrepid types might like to rent a kayak from Fergs near Ōkahu Bay Beach and paddle to Home Bay. Get ready to put in a solid few hours of hard graft.

IMAGE ABOVE: Tiritiri Matangi Island © Mark Meredith

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