Last updated October 2026
The Motuihe Island tracks are a set of easy DOC walks on Motuihe Island / Te Motu-a-Ihenga in the inner Hauraki Gulf, passing ancient native trees, rare birds, limestone formations and sheltered beaches. DOC grades them Easy to intermediate, with walks from 20 minutes to 3 hours one way and 1 to 6.5 km return.
Most are measured from Motuihe Wharf, reached by boat transfer at set times or by private boat. DOC notes there is always a beach for a picnic, sheltered from whichever way the wind is blowing.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Motuihe Island tracks on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOCTrack facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.
Practical Information
- Start
- Motuihe Wharf (the Headland Heritage Walk starts past the toilets by the campsite)
- Getting there
- Boat transfer from operators at set times, or private boat (anchorage by the campsite)
- Distance from the city
- About 17 km from Auckland
- Walking time
- 20 minutes to 3 hours one way, depending on the walk
- Track length
- 1 to 6.5 km return via the same track, depending on the walk
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate
- Dogs
- No dogs on the island, including the shore and foreshore
- Facilities
- Toilets near the track to the wharf; camping in designated areas
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About the Motuihe Island Tracks
The tracks are gently graded, and DOC’s times assume a leisurely pace with stops. Most are mown grass, except the bush section of the Tieke Track, which is formed and metalled.
The Tieke Track (1.5 to 2.5 hours, 5 km return to the wharf) runs through the middle of the island under ancient native trees, home to many birds including the rare saddleback (tīeke). A seat along the way overlooks Wharf Bay and a geologically significant pancake limestone formation.
The Eastern Beaches Track (1.5 to 2.5 hours, 5.5 km return) is a grassy loop with outstanding Hauraki Gulf views and access to Ocean Beach, Snapper Bay and Calypso Bay. The Bald Knob Track (2 to 3 hours, 6.5 km return) follows the ridgeline to a secluded sandy beach at the southern end, with views over Wharf Bay to Rangitoto.
The short Headland Heritage Walk (20 to 45 minutes, 1 km return) starts past the toilets by the campsite. It passes olive trees planted in the 1860s, takes in views of the Waitematā Harbour and Gulf islands, and ends at the historic 1918 influenza graveyard at the island’s northern tip.
Getting There
Several operators run boat transfers to and from Motuihe Wharf at set times. DOC stresses arriving promptly for your return pick-up, as other transport or accommodation may not be available. If you are coming by private boat, there is a good anchorage beside the campsite on the north-western headland.
Before You Go
There is a total fire ban on the island, though gas cooking equipment is allowed. DOC warns of cliff edges, so supervise children at all times, and says to keep well clear of historic structures, which may be unstable. There is nowhere to leave rubbish, so take it all with you. Check DOC before you go.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Motuihe Island tracks: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Auckland Council: parks, reserves and track information across the Auckland region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Motuihe Island?
By boat transfer from one of several operators at set times, or by private boat.
Which walk should I do?
The Tieke Track is best for birds and old trees, the Eastern Beaches Track for beaches and Gulf views, and the Headland Heritage Walk is the shortest option.
How long are the walks?
From 20 minutes for the Headland Heritage Walk to 2–3 hours for the Bald Knob Track.
How hard are they?
DOC grades the tracks Easy to intermediate, with an easy gradient.
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC says no dogs are allowed on the island, including the shore and foreshore.
Are there toilets?
Yes, near the track to the wharf.
Can I camp on Motuihe?
DOC says overnight camping is allowed in designated areas only.
What birds might I see?
DOC mentions many native birds, including the rare saddleback (tīeke) on the Tieke Track.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.