Tiritiri Matangi HIGHLIGHTS
a stunning open Bird Sanctuary
- Tuatara can only be found on Islands that are completely free of introduced pests, such as Tiritiri Matangi. Sixty adults were released on the Island in 2003.
- Along the Kawerau Track, you will find one of the island’s oldest Pohutukawa trees estimated to be 800-1000 years old.
- Hobbs Beach is a leisurely 10 minute walk from the wharf and is a sandy beach idyllic for swimming and picnicking.
- The Tiritiri Lighthouse, built in 1864, is one of New Zealand’s oldest Lighthouse settlements still in its original condition in New Zealand.
- Penguin Nesting Boxes are situated above the beach and are used by the little blue penguins during breeding and moulting season.
- Takahe, from the same family as the Pukeko, are extremely inquisitive and rare. They were once thought to be extinct. Be careful not to share your lunch with them.
- Stitchbird (hihi) are the only member of a family whose closest living relatives are the saddleback and kokako. Until recently, they were only found on nearby Hauturu /Little Barrier Island.
- North Island Saddleback (tieke) are poor fliers and can be seen bouncing from branch to branch on their strong legs. They rarely fly more than 50 metres at a time.
- Kakariki can be heard by their loud chatter, “ki-ki-ki-ki-ki” as they fly speedily above the forest canopy.
- Brown Teal (pateke) one of the world’s rarest ducks, can be found on the island’s dams.
- North Island Robin are curious little creatures, bold and fearless. They are known to approach humans with interest and are also one of the easiest birds to photograph on the Island.
- The Tree planting project: 283,000 trees were planted on Tiritiri Matangi between 1984 and 1994 regenerating 60% of the island’s forest.
- The souvenir shop and interactive visitor centre are managed by the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi, and are a focal point for the island. All profits from the shop go back to the Island.
- Whitehead have a variety of calls (a buzzing or background chatter) which can be heard while they busy themselves in the canopy.
- Kokako (blue wattled crow) are very rare and one of the main reasons bird watchers visit the island. Their song is reputedly the most beautiful in the world. It is common to see and hear them flying above the canopy on Tiritiri Matangi.
Help look after our island
Tiritiri Matangi 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. If you have any doubts or questions about your packed items, please ask our sales staff or boat crew. On arrival at the island, you will be met by one of the friendly DOC Rangers, who will outline the rules and regulations to ensure the Island remains pest-free and the wildlife remains unharmed. Please respect and obey these rules at all times
Bikes are not allowed to be taken onto Tiritiri Matangi.
Remember! A packed lunch (no food can be purchased on the island), suitable walking shoes, light rain jacket, sun-screen, hat, towel and swimwear. Pop into the Visitor Centre for a complimentary cup of tea or coffee. The shop has cold drinks, gifts, clothing, books and island mementos. Shop profits are invested in the Island through the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi Inc.
