The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
Aotearoa New Zealand’s first marine park – spans some 1.2 million hectares, boasts around 50 islands, and hosts the likes of dolphins, orcas, whales, and some of the world’s rarest birds.
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto, the Hauraki Gulf’s youngest and largest volcano, is easily recognised by its near-symmetrical cone, which formed about 600 years ago. Its slopes shelter native birds, hundreds of plant species, and walkable lava tubes.
There’s no accommodation, but you can camp on neighbouring Motutapu Island – where there are fossilised footprints from when Rangitoto first emerged from the sea!
Tiritiri Matangi
Tiritiri Matangi is a volunteer-supported, pest-free sanctuary sheltering rare birds including takahē, kōkako, and tūī. Overnight stays offer some of the country’s the best chances of spotting kiwi in the wild, with other highlights including a 19th-century lighthouse, ancient pōhutukawa, and spring-nesting kororā (little penguin) in Hobbs Beach nest boxes.
Kawau Island
Kawau Island was settled by Māori but abandoned in the 1820s after a bloody musket-wars clash. Manganese mining began in the 1840s, followed by copper, and ruins remain. In 1862 Governor George Grey bought the island, enlarged the mine manager’s house into a mansion and planted exotic gardens, where peacocks still strut their stuff. Visitors can sail from Sandspit on the Royal Mail Run cruise, which delivers post around the bays and stops at the Mansion House.
Aotea/Great Barrier
Aotea/Great Barrier Island is New Zealand’s sixth-largest island, and more than half of it is managed by the Department of Conservation. The east coast draws surfers, while the west offers calmer swimming. Hikers can tackle the three-day Aotea Track or stroll to the Kaitoka Hot Springs. With no mains power, supermarkets or public transport, it’s proudly self-reliant.
