Last updated July 2026
Motutapu Island is a 1,510-hectare island in the Hauraki Gulf, connected to Rangitoto Island by a causeway. It forms part of the Motutapu Island Recreation Reserve managed by the Department of Conservation. The island features a mix of open farmland, regenerating native forest, and coastal areas, with panoramic views across the gulf. An active ecological restoration programme led by the Motutapu Restoration Trust has seen hundreds of thousands of native trees planted since the early 1990s. Access is primarily by ferry to Home Bay or by walking the causeway from Rangitoto.
Practical Information
| Getting there | Fullers360 ferry to Home Bay; walk the causeway from Rangitoto (best at low tide); private boat or kayak also possible |
| Main tracks | Motutapu Walkway (Home Bay to causeway, 60–90 minutes one way); Rotary Centennial Loop (through restored forest) |
| Difficulty | Moderate; includes farmland sections and climb to 120 m trig station |
| Camping | DOC campsite at Home Bay with toilets and potable water; bookings required; no showers |
| Cost | Track access free; ferry fares apply; camping fees apply |
| Dogs | Not permitted (pest-free wildlife sanctuary) |
| Water | Potable water available at Home Bay campsite |
About Motutapu Island
Motutapu Island lies immediately adjacent to Rangitoto in the inner Hauraki Gulf and retains a predominantly open, pastoral character unlike the forested cone of its neighbour. Farming has continued on the island for generations, creating broad ridge-top views across the gulf to the Coromandel Peninsula, Great Barrier Island, and Auckland city. The landscape is gradually changing as native forest regenerates through community planting efforts.
The island is a recreation reserve with significant ecological and cultural values. Pest eradication across Motutapu and Rangitoto has supported the return of native birds, while volunteer planting continues to expand forest cover. Visitors experience a combination of coastal, farmland, and regenerating bush environments on a single day trip or overnight stay.
Facilities remain basic, with the main visitor hub at Home Bay offering camping, toilets, and water. The island suits walkers seeking moderate tracks with gulf views and an interest in ecological restoration. No dogs are allowed to protect the pest-free status.
The Motutapu Walkway
The Motutapu Walkway runs from Home Bay across farmland to the causeway linking Motutapu with Rangitoto. Poles mark the route over open sections, and the track climbs to the island’s 120-metre trig station. From the high point, views extend across the Hauraki Gulf in multiple directions. The walk typically takes 60–90 minutes one way and connects directly with Rangitoto tracks once the causeway is crossed.
The Rotary Centennial Loop
The Rotary Centennial Loop is a circular walk through areas of native forest planted by volunteers. It passes through different stages of regeneration, from recently planted sections to areas where canopy is beginning to close. The loop highlights the results of large-scale community restoration work and takes approximately two hours to complete.
Wildlife and Restoration
The Motutapu Restoration Trust, formed in the early 1990s, has planted around 500,000 native trees including pōhutukawa, tōtara, kauri, and kōwhai. Pest control has removed rats, mice, and feral cats, allowing native birds such as tūī, kererū, and bellbird to increase. Restoration continues with regular volunteer planting days that expand forest cover across former farmland.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers enjoy the open ridge views and the contrast between farmland and regenerating forest. Many appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the visible results of the restoration programme, noting that birdlife has become more noticeable over recent years.
Campers at Home Bay describe the site as spacious and scenic with easy beach access. Reviewers often mention the need to plan around ferry times and tides for the causeway, and they value the basic but reliable facilities.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Motutapu Island Recreation Reserve: official information on access, tracks, camping, and regulations.
Motutapu Restoration Trust: details on the restoration programme, volunteer opportunities, and current planting activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Motutapu Island?
Fullers360 operates ferries to Home Bay. Alternatively, take the ferry to Rangitoto and walk the causeway to Motutapu, which is best crossed at low tide. Private boats and kayaks can also reach the island.
How long are the main walks?
The Motutapu Walkway from Home Bay to the causeway takes 60–90 minutes. The Rotary Centennial Loop through restored forest takes about two hours.
Can I camp on Motutapu Island?
Yes, the DOC campsite at Home Bay offers toilets and potable water. Bookings are required in advance and fees apply. There are no showers.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not permitted because Motutapu is a pest-free wildlife sanctuary.
What birds can I see?
Tūī, kererū, and bellbird are commonly heard and seen thanks to the restoration and pest control work. Bird numbers continue to increase as forest cover expands.
Is the causeway always accessible?
The causeway between Rangitoto and Motutapu is best crossed at low tide. Check tide times before planning a crossing on foot.
Are there any facilities besides camping?
Home Bay provides the main visitor facilities. The island has limited infrastructure overall, so visitors should bring all required supplies.
Is the island suitable for families?
Moderate walking tracks and open terrain make it suitable for fit families, though the lack of shade on farmland sections and basic facilities should be considered.
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