Activities at Tiritiri Matangi Scientific Reserve (Open Sanctuary)

Visiting the island

The island's sanctuary status allows a limited number of visitors each day. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy its special flora and fauna. A shop on the island sells drinks and souvenirs.

Guided tours, run by the Supporters of Tiritiri, are well worth taking advantage of if you are a first time visitor.

Things to see

There is a network of tracks to enable visitors to explore the bush, cliff top views and beaches.

Platform for viewing birds, Tiritiri
Matangi Island

Following the restoration of the forest and the removal of pests several rare birds have been introduced or returned to the island, including saddleback, takahē, parakeet, North Island robin, kōkako, whitehead, little spotted kiwi, stitchbird and brown teal.

Visitors enjoy the unique sound of the 'dawn chorus', now sadly absent from most forests on the mainland. The island is a taonga and visitors are rewarded with the special experience of seeing some of New Zealand's most endangered birds in the wild, in addition to spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and an opportunity to inspect the historic lighthouse and pa sites.

Swimming and snorkelling

Hobbs Beach on the Western side of the island is good for swimming and snorkelling.