Come to Moturoa Island for a picnic, or camp for the night at this predator-free Auckland reserve. It's possible to hear and sometimes see (at night) North Island brown kiwi on the island.
The Kermadec Islands Nature Reserve, located some 1000km northeast of New Zealand, is the most remost area managed by the Department of Conservation and can only be visited with a special permit.
On a day visit to Rakitu you might choose to snorkel, dive or take a leisurely walk. Several historic sites, including three pa are found on the island.
Be sure to spend time at the visitor centre before venturing out on one of the many bush or coastal walks. You'll also want to visit the island's historic lighthouse and pa sites.
Access to Motuihe Recreation Reserve is by private boat, water taxi or Fullers ferry. Once there you'll enjoy camping, swimming, walks, visiting historic sites and bird watching.
The Mokohinau Islands provide a dramatic backdrop for boating. The waters are excellent for diving and snorkelling. On Burgess Island you can visit the lighthouse and the remains of World War II military installations.
When you visit Motutapu, make sure you take a walk along the Motutapu Walkway and visit the many archaeological and WWI military sites on the island. Swimming, camping and picnicking are all popular activities here.
Motukorea has long been a popular picnic destination for Aucklanders. You may want to kayak, walk and bird watch while you're here. There are no visitor facilities on the island.
On Great Barrier Island you can take a soak in thermal springs, tramp through coastal forests or snorkel in an isolated cove. Boating, kayaking and fishing are other popular activities on the island.
People are welcome to visit the Te Matuku Marine Reserve to picnic, swim, snorkel, dive, take photos, kayak and watch birds.
Parks and recreation - all regions
Official Auckland website