You don't need to be a beaky bird watcher with a silly hat to enjoy this bird sanctuary with its friendly endangered species, beautiful beaches and cool native forest.

Crystal clear bays and a bounty of native birds give the illusion of being far from noisy city traffic, so far in fact you get a taste of New Zealand before roads existed.

Tiritiri Matangi Island, only 30km from central Auckland, is an open bird sanctuary and a real conservation success thanks to thousands of volunteers planting trees and successfully transferring endangered bird species.

The island is unique because of the large number of bird species to be seen in a very short time and with such ease. Physically demanding hiking to remote locations would not yield the same variety or quantity of sightings.

Viewing and getting around is easy from well- constructed boardwalks suitable for all fitness levels. Many of the birds are relaxed around people and you can get quite close.

After the tour visitors are free to walk the boardwalks and trails to spot birds or picnic on the beach and swim in the beautiful bays.

Bird Species

Supporters of Tiritiri conduct excellent informative two-hour guided tours. Within minutes Tuis will become common place, yet a glimpse of one bird on the mainland is cause for excitement.

Native pigeons, tuis, fantails, baby blue penguins and bellbirds as well as rarer native birds - Kokako, Takahe, saddleback, stitchbird, red crowned parakeets, North Island Robin and the Little Spotted Kiwi can all be seen on the island.

You will also meet Greg, the island Takahe. Greg, a bird of character as well as size, may try to climb up your body and perch on your head. Not to be encouraged, as he supports his weight by digging six claws into your flesh.

Weighing in at about 3kgs the precocious but friendly Takahe’s attentions have lead to unpleasant experiences by some visitors so a ’Greg Warning’ was given on landing by Ray Walter, island Ranger for 21 years.

Greg is a member of an endangered species being one of only 17 birds on the island and about 230 in New Zealand.

At Hobbs Bay the little blue penguins are star attractions and so resigned to visitors they barely glance at them.

When to Visit

Blue penguins are on their nests during the egg-laying and incubation period between September and January.

Spring is a lively time to visit as the island becomes noisy with birds sorting out territory. The flowering of the pohutukawas in summer is also a prime time as masses of birds seek the pollen for a sugar treat.

Other Islands

• Tiritiri Matangi is one of over 50 islands in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Reserve. Other popular islands are Rangitoto Island, Kawau Island and Great Barrier Island.
• Further south, off the east coast, White Island's fierce fumeroles and bleak volcanic landcape are a stark contrast to serene Tiri.

How to Get There

Ferries depart from both Gulf Harbour and downtown Auckland. Visitors are limited to 150 per day so booking is essential with Kawau Kat Cruises.

Visitor Information

• For ferries, maps, tours and accommodation (Bunkhouse sleeps 19 people in four rooms) visit Tiritiri Matangi Island Supporters website.
• The Department of Conservation (DoC) needs volunteers for track maintenance, plant propagation, beach cleanups.
• Or become a supporter of Tiritiri Matangi.