Sick of queues heading to Waiheke? Visit Rotoroa Island instead: a beautiful haven dedicated to restoring and conserving our native flora, fauna and birdlife.
Upon arrival on the island, guests are given a brief safety talk and then let loose to explore all 80 hectares of paradise.
Walk up the tree-lined boardwalk to the Exhibition Centre and discover Rotoroa’s history as a Salvation Army addiction rehabilitation site.
From there it’s just a quick stroll through purple hydrangeas and rows of harakeke, past the old chapel and schoolhouse to the island’s various beaches.
The glittering harbours dotted with boats are the perfect spot for some relaxation in the sun and a dip in the ocean to cool off – bring your snorkel for a chance to spot some Hauraki Gulf sea life.
Hike the network of easy walking tracks and climb the small incline trail to the top of the mountain for gorgeous expansive views over the Hauraki Gulf, neighbouring Waiheke Island and the Coromandel Peninsula.
You can also opt for a 90-minute guided nature tour led by rangers and volunteers to learn more about the island’s native bush and its most distinctive endangered inhabitants: takahē and kiwi. If you time your visit well, you may even get to witness a bird release – check Rotoroa Island for release dates. Keep an eye out for other birdlife flying overhead: pīwakawaka (fantail), tīeke (saddleback) and tūī.
Strictly no dogs and no fires are allowed on Rotoroa Island, so do your part to ensure this slice of paradise remains clean and safe for its precious ground-dwelling birdlife.
Bring your own picnic lunch with you and take your rubbish as you go, as there are no rubbish bins on the island, but there is a small kiosk that opens from 3-4pm with cold drinks and ice cream, perfect for an after-swim treat.
Just make sure to be back at the wharf for the return ferry home – unless you’ve booked a place in the island’s accommodation for the evening. If not, enjoy the skyline views from the ferry as you coast back into Auckland’s downtown – sunkissed and singing the praises of this beautiful island and its precious taonga.
Story and photos by Emily Draper
