Tiritiri Matangi Island with 360 Discovery Cruises

Tiritiri Matangi Island is a wildlife sanctuary and one of New Zealand's most important conservation projects. It is located 30km north east of central Auckland and just 4km from the end of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. It takes around 1 hour to reach the Island with 360 Discovery Cruises. 120 years of farming had seen this 220-hectare island stripped of 94% of its native bush but between 1984 and 1994, volunteers planted between 250,000 and 300,000 trees. The island is now 60% forested with the remaining 40% left as grassland for species preferring open habitat.

As we reach the island we are greeted by the ranger who takes us through some basic safety procedures. It is important not to smoke to prevent fires and collect all rubbish before leaving. The aim of today’s trip is to appreciate the conservation efforts led by The Tiritiri Matangi Island sanctuary, in partnership between the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the community, through the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi, a non-profit community conservation organisation. We are also here to spot as many birds as possible, and we were not disappointed. One of the supporters acts as our guide, telling us about the species and their habitat, and also traditional medicinal plant usage in Maori culture.

Tuis, fantails, wood pigeons, black birds, brown saddlebacks, whiteheads, moreporks and robins are some of the many species found here. Takahes and kiwis can also be found but are harder to spot!

Tui

Wood Pigeon

Morepork owl

The bush walk and vistas are impressive and Tiritiri Matangi makes for a great day out. You will learn a lot about exceptional flora and fauna. Just bring a picnic lunch with you or pre-order one from the company, and don’t forget your binoculars to get a better glimpse of the birds.

GO EXPLORE!

Steph