Motuihe Island
Motuihe Island Adventure
Motuihe is a recreational reserve and is managed through a partnership between the Department of Conservation and the Motuihe Trust.
Motuihe is an uninhabited island just 30 minutes by boat from downtown Auckland. 360 Discovery Cruises offers full and half-day options to this beautiful conservation area boasting some of the finest white sandy beaches in the Hauraki Gulf.
The island is rich in both indigenous and early settler history. One claim to fame is as an internment camp for Prisoners of War. In his 2005 book The Cruise of the Sea Eagle, author Blaine Pardoe details the amazing story of Germany’s “gentleman pirate,” Motuihe’s most famous prisoner Count Felix von Luckner.
There is something for everyone on Motuihe, including swimming, tramping a chance to be involved in the ongoing eco-restoration of this striking island.
Guided walks of Motuihe
To get more out of your day on Motuihe, why not take a guided tour of the island learning about the islands wildlife and the historic sites remaining from World War ll.
These Guided walks are subject to availability at only a small additional fee of $7.50 per person - please contact the Motuihe Trust to check availability on telephone 0800 668844 or email: info@motuihe.org.nz
Help to Look After Our Island
Important Information for Motuihe Island
Motuihe 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.
If you are planning to camp on the island please book through the Department of Conservation's Auckland Area Office Ph 09 455 9142. Camping equipment must be opened and inspected for ants, rodents and weed seeds prior to departure from the mainland.
Please note, dogs are not permitted on Motuihe.
