Summary
Ngati Awa holds manawhenua to the island and are tangata whenua. Following the Ngati Awa Settlement Act 2005, the Department of Conservation and Ngati Awa jointly manage Moutohora through Te Tapatoru a Toi (Joint Management Committee) a committee consisting of members nominated from Ngati Awa, the Bay of Plenty Conservation Board and Minister of Conservation.
The island is currently managed for ecological restoration of its ecosystem. This includes protection of habitats for indigenous plants and animals and conservation of historic and cultural resources.
Learn about the flora and fauna of Moutohora (Whale Island) in this brochure, and find out about landing and visitor permit requirements for visiting the island.