Little Barrier Island (Hauturu) Nature Reserve
Introduction
Little Barrier Island (Hauturu) is one of New Zealand's most valuable nature reserves. Its Maori name Hauturu means 'resting place of the winds'.
The island is a specially-protected nature reserve, where human impacts are kept to a minimum and extreme care is taken to keep the island free of introduced animals and plants.
Permits required
You need a permit to visit this thickly forested island that is home to over 350 native species of plants. It’s an incredible place to view wildlife.
Location
It lies 80 km north of Auckland city on the outer edge of the Hauraki Gulf.
Features
Main landing, Little Barrier Island
Little Barrier is one of the last remnants of primeval New Zealand; it is the only large forested area left in the country relatively undisturbed by browsing mammals. As such, it is an invaluable refuge for rare and endangered plants, birds and animals whose mainland habitats have been destroyed.
Places to stay
There is no accommodation available for visitors to Little Barrier Island.
Plan and prepare
It is possible to visit nature reserves but visitor numbers and movements are strictly regulated. You must apply for a permit to visit Little Barrier Island and you are likely to be prosecuted if you land illegally. Leave your pets at home and always check your boat for stowaway pets.