Aerial view of Tiritiri Matangi Island and Whangaraparoa Peninsula
Tiritiri Matangi ("looking to the wind" or "wind tossing about" is one of the most successful conservation projects in the world. Unwanted predators have been eradicated, and the once-pastoral island has been replanted with native trees. Rare native birds and animals have been returned to its now-safe and restored habitats.
As an open sanctuary you can visit Tiritiri Matangi and see some of New Zealand's most endangered birds in the wild, including takahē, kōkako, saddleback/tīeke and hihi or stitchbird.
As an open sanctuary you can visit Tiritiri Matangi and see some of New Zealand's most endangered birds in the wild, including takahe, kokako, saddleback and hihi or stitchbird.
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.
Plan a day trip to the island as the bunkhouse on the island is used mainly for volunteers and researchers.
Remember to keep to the track in this wildlife sanctuary. No pets are allowed on the island and we ask that you ensure there are no rodent stowaways in your boat or gear.
This extensive teaching resource is for use with classroom and field trip activites associated with Tiritiri Matangi Island, and can be downloaded here. A curriculum update was completed in June 2009.
Volunteers are needed to help maintain the pest-free wildlife sanctuary on Tiritiri Matangi Island.
In this video you'll travel to Tiritiri Matangi near Auckland, an island sanctuary open to the public where you can visit some of New Zealand’s rarest birds, including takahē and saddleback/tīeke.
NZ weather
Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi website
Zoe Roland at Tiritiri Matangi - Wild Creations artist in residence
Safety information
Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
