Last updated May 2026
Motukorea / Browns Island is one of the best-preserved volcanoes in the Auckland volcanic field — a small island in the Hauraki Gulf that became Auckland’s first island regional park and public reserve in 2018. At 68 metres above sea level, its scoria cone and deep summit crater offer sweeping views of the city, inner gulf islands, and surrounding harbour, while the island’s tracks pass through farmland, pā sites, and the ruins of an early paddle steamer. There is no public ferry to Motukorea — access is by private boat or sea kayak — which keeps it quieter than most Auckland day destinations.
Practical Information
| Location | Hauraki Gulf, Auckland — island park |
|---|---|
| Access | Private boat or sea kayak only — no public ferry service |
| Entry | Free once on the island |
| Kayak tours | Depart from 384 Tamaki Drive, St Heliers |
| Walks | 30-min, 90-min options from Crater Bay |
| Facilities | No facilities on island — bring all supplies including water |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
About Motukorea / Browns Island
Motukorea — meaning “place of the oystercatcher” — has been shaped by both volcanic forces and human history over thousands of years. The island last erupted approximately 10,000 years ago, leaving behind a prominent scoria cone, a deep summit crater, and remnants of a tuff ring that make it one of the most geologically intact examples of the Auckland volcanic field. It sits within the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and was incorporated into the Auckland Regional Parks network in February 2018.
The island has a significant Māori history. Evidence of early Māori settlement is visible in the terraced hillsides and cultivated areas that remain from a time when the island supported a permanent population. The island was later used for European farming, and the ruins of an early paddle steamer in Crater Bay are one of the more unusual remnants of 19th-century activity in the gulf.
Walks and Tracks
All walks on Motukorea start from Crater Bay — the main landing area on the western side of the island. There are several distinct options depending on time and energy:
A 30-minute return stroll from Crater Bay leads to the paddle steamer ruins on the shoreline — a short, easy walk suitable for most visitors. A 90-minute return walk takes in the pā sites and cultivated terraces across the island’s slope. A separate 90-minute option explores the island’s volcanic features in more detail. The summit walk — a 25-minute climb from Crater Bay through open farmland — rewards with views down into the crater and across the gulf to the city skyline.
Getting There
There is no scheduled public ferry to Motukorea. Access is by private boat — landing is permitted at Crater Bay — or by guided sea kayak tour. Auckland Sea Kayaks runs tours to the island, departing from St Heliers Beach at 384 Tamaki Drive. These tours typically take 3–4 hours return and include the crossing, a guided walk on the island, and return paddle. Self-guided kayakers need solid open-water paddling experience given the crossing distance and exposure to wind and swell in the inner gulf.
What visitors say
“Paddling out to Motukorea was one of the best things we did in Auckland. The island feels completely removed from the city despite being so close. The summit views are incredible — you can see right across the gulf.”
“The paddle steamer ruins were a highlight — eerie and interesting. It’s a proper adventure, not a groomed tourist attraction. Take water and lunch because there’s nothing on the island.”
Where to learn more
Auckland Council — Motukorea Browns Island: official park page with access information and track details.
Wikipedia — Motukorea: overview of the island’s geology, history, and ecological significance.
Auckland Sea Kayaks — Motukorea tours: guided kayak tours from St Heliers, including tour details and booking.
Auckland NZ — Motukorea Browns Island: tourism overview and visitor information.
FAQ
Is there a ferry to Motukorea / Browns Island?
No — there is no public ferry service to Motukorea. Access is by private boat (landing at Crater Bay) or by guided sea kayak tour. Auckland Sea Kayaks offers tours from St Heliers Beach.
How long does it take to kayak to Motukorea?
The crossing from St Heliers takes around 30–45 minutes each way depending on conditions. Guided tours typically run 3–4 hours total including the crossing, a walk on the island, and the return paddle.
Can I camp on Motukorea?
Camping is not permitted on Motukorea / Browns Island. It is a day-visit park only.
Are there facilities on the island?
No — there are no toilets, drinking water, or food available on the island. Bring everything you need including water, food, and a first aid kit.
Are dogs allowed on Motukorea?
Dogs are not permitted on the island.
What are the best walks on Motukorea?
The 25-minute summit walk from Crater Bay is the most popular — the crater and gulf views are the island’s main drawcard. The paddle steamer ruins walk (30 minutes return) is an easy option for those with limited time. The 90-minute pā sites walk covers more of the island’s history and geology.
Motukorea / Browns Island is part of the Auckland parks and reserves network. For other regional parks accessible by water, see the guide to Whakanewha Regional Park on Waiheke Island.
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