Tiritiri Matangi Island Walk

It’s been a long time since I last visited Tiritiri Matangi Island. It's changed a lot, in a good way. Lots of bird life and native trees now.

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Located in the Hauraki Gulf just over the water from Shakespear Park. It’s a short ferry ride from Auckland viaduct to Tiritiri Matangi Island, a haven for rare birds and a testament to the power of conservation.

This 220-hectare island, once ravaged by introduced predators, has been meticulously restored, transforming into a thriving sanctuary for species like the bellbird, kākāpo, and takahē.

But Tiritiri Matangi isn’t just about the wonderful bird life. Explore the island’s historical lighthouse, learn about its rich Māori heritage, or simply soak in the panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf from its highest point.

FERRY TIMETABLE & PRICES: Book the ferry to Tiritiri Matangi Island here.

The Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour - From Auckland

Our party opted for the guided tour and our volunteer guide Anna educated us about the trees and the birds as we made our way up the Wattle Track to the Visitors Centre, shop and lighthouse. We ate our picnic lunch at the table provided. (There is an option to have your picnic supplies driven up to that point to save carrying them with you.)

After lunch, we ambled back down to the ferry via the Kawerau Track. It was magic to stop in a bush clad gully to hear and see so many birds in the magnificent trees. My favourite stopping point was by the 800-1000 year old pohutukawa tree – there were many tui birds calling.

This was a great day out and we are planning to come back in the spring to see the trees in bloom.

Photos from my walk along the Tiritiri Matangi Island Walk

Map of all the walks on Tiritiri Matangi Island

Comments on Tiritiri Matangi Island Walk

Gina wilson

Hi Helen,
I met you on Tiri on 2nd March. We discussed signage. I have just been reading your review & you mention an 800 yr old Kauri. This is incorrect as we do not have such a tree on Tiri. I think you may be thinking of the Puriri or Pohutakawa tree. I have sent your comments to Mary-Ann.
Regards
Gina

Helen

Many thanks for leaving your comment Gina. Yes there is no kauri tree – mistake has been corrected, thank you for pointing that out. Cheers, Helen

See more of my 150+ walks in Auckland

Helen Wenley

This project began in 2011. My friend Grace was the walk creator – with her knowledge of Auckland, she could “see” circular routes, and then it was up to me to map out, photograph, research and document the routes. At first, I relied upon my voice recorder and Google maps but then with the advancement of technology, the smart phone became a best friend and I was able to track our route. The best fun was when we were both pleasantly surprised by what there was to see. Beautiful wetlands, views and bush kept us inspired to explore more.