Skip to content

Site Menu

Places to visit

Moturua Island Scenic Reserve

Northland region

Moturua Island.

Moturua Island

Northland region.

Moturua Island is a scenic reserve with rapidly regenerating native forest. The dominant vegetation is manuka and kanuka which creates an ideal nursery for young shrubs and tree ferns. Young Pohutukawa thrive along the coastal fringe.

The island has had a long association with humans from the earliest Polynesian settlers through to the early European explorers such as Cook and du Fresne. It currently has twenty-seven recorded archaeological sites including headland pa, midden, gardening sites, terraces, and pits. More recent features include a Mine Control Station built during World War II.

Location

Moturua Island Scenic Reserve is situated in the central Bay of Islands. The four main bays, Otupoho, Waipao, Mangahawea and Waiwhapuku all offer safe anchorage for visitors.

Features

Moturua Island is a scenic reserve with rapidly regenerating native forest. The North Island robin lives here, as do fantails, tui and North Island brown kiwi. The island features four spectacular bays.

Activities at Moturua Island Scenic Reserve

Beautiful bays and picturesque beaches provide plenty of opportunities for swimming and picnicking. The 4 km loop track is easy and well formed.

Places to stay

There is no campground on Moturua Island. Other DOC accommodation is located on Urupukapuka Island and at Cape Brett.

Plan & prepare

Be aware of the cliffs and steep bluffs along the Moturua Island Scenic Reserve Track.

Highlights:

Project Island Song - Ipipiri/Eastern Bay of Islands restoration

Learn about a major restoration project that aims to eradicate rodents and stoats from Ipipiri/Eastern Bay of Islands and to restore the biological, historical and cultural values of the islands.

Guides and commercial tourism providers

Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide activities and services on Moturua Island.

Find out more

Publications

Moturua Island brochure (PDF, 249K)

Weather

Weather for Bay of Islands area - Northland rural forecast

Maps

New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres

Learn more

Learn more about driving on the Beach - NRC website
Get involved in CoastCare - NRC website

Stop the spread of didymo

Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Tips for driving on unsealed roads

Contacts

Bay of Islands Area Office
Phone:	+64 9 407 0300

Email:
Full office details