Motutapu Walkway
Alert/Important notice
Bicycles are not permitted on Motutapu Island. Motutapu is now pest free - remember to check for stowaways!
Track category
Route
Description
Track times are indicative only. Please ensure you have plenty of time to complete your walk and catch the ferry.
Home Bay to Islington Bay
Time: 1 hr 30 min one way
Distance: 4.2 km
Competitors in the DUAL event above Home Bay, Motutapu Island
The Motutapu Walkway starts at the southern end of Home Bay. Poles mark the track across farmland, climbing to the island's 120m trig station and giving panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf. The track passes an area of native bush planted by volunteers in 2002 and 2003.
Home Bay to Emu Point
Time: 1 hr 45 min one way
Distance: 4.8 km
A loop track to Emu Point passes the site of the original homestead in Emu Bay.
Emu Point to Islington Bay
Time: 1 hr 5 min
Distance: 3 km
The main track continues towards Rangitoto above the distinctive sandstone cliffs facing Islington Bay and Rangitoto. The track finishes near the causeway which links Motutapu and Rangitoto Islands.
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Getting there
View of Home Bay, Motutapu IslandAccess to Motutapu is by private boat, ferry service or kayak.
A number of private ferry operators run trips to Home Bay Wharf on Motutapu Island in the summer months. Check with the Auckland Visitor Centre for details.
Safe anchorages for private boats include Wharf Bay, Ocean Beach and Calypso Bay.
Motutapu Island is accessible to experienced kayakers. It takes approximately three hours to kayak to Home Bay. Several kayak operators offer kayak rentals and guided kayak tours to Motutapu. Contact the Auckland Visitor Centre for more information.
Transport on the island
There is no public transport available on the island. Please note that bicycles are not permitted on Motutapu.
Plan and prepare
- Bring water with you - drinking water is not readily available on the island.
- A torch is essential if you want to explore the tunnels and military sites.
- Bring a sunhat and sunscreen.
Rangitoto/Motutapu islands restoration project - remember to check for stowaways!
Rangitoto and Motutapu islands were declared pest free in August 2011. The long term success of keeping pests off these islands and preventing reinvasion depends on everyone. You can help by:
- Checking your boat or kayak and gear for rodent or insect stowaways before you leave the mainland.
- Cleaning footwear, clothing and gear and checking for seeds - weeds are a problem on the island.
- Packing luggage and food you are bringing to the island in rodent proof containers - no open containers or plastic bags please.
- Leaving your dog or other domestic pets at home - dogs pose a risk to the native species on this island.
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Guides and commercial tourism providers