A day on Rotoroa Island
A predator-free wildlife sanctuary 75 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland. Walk native bush and coastal tracks, swim at four sandy bays, spot takahē,tīeke and weka, and explore a century of island history. Small enough to explore in one day, big enough that you'll never get bored. Adventure, relaxation, and purpose , all on one island.
Best for...
Families with children aged 5 and up (challenging terrain for prams, bring a front pack or back carrier if you have young children), bird and nature lovers, walkers who want an easy to moderate day, and anyone who wants a quiet beach without leaving Auckland.
Getting there...
Take the Explore Group ferry from Viaduct Harbour, 75 minutes each way. We welcome private boats and you can also book a water taxi.
Ferry schedule:
Until 23 October 2026:
Wednesday to Sunday and public holidays, departs 9.15am, returns 2.25pm (about
4.5 hours on the island).
From 24 October 2026: daily at 9.15am, plus 11.30am on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, with up to 5 hours 50 minutes
ashore.
Price...
The ferry is $110 adult (16+), $55 child (5 to 15), under 5 free, $275 family (2 adults, 2 children).
Add the 90-minute ranger-guided Living Island Walk for $22 adult,
$11 child, $60 family. Book your walk at the same time as you book your ferry via Explore Group.
What to bring...
All your food and drink in sealed containers (there is no cafe; the kiosk sells ice creams and cold drinks before the return ferry), water bottle, walking shoes, togs and towel, sunhat and rain jacket.
Electric barbecues are free to use at Home Bay and Ladies Bay. There is a drinking fountain to fill drink bottles, and toilets.
Things to do on Rotoroa Island
Bird Spotting
Predator free since 2014, Rotoroa Island is now home to a wide range of New Zealand native birds.
Scenic Walks
Explore our network of coastal and forest trails that wind through restored native bush, spot native birds, and discover an island transformed by conservation.
Relax
Unwind on pristine sandy shores, take a dip in the gulf, and soak in the peace of our secluded beaches.
Combo Cruises
Explore Rotoroa Island with Explore Group and combine it with a wine tasting at Man O' War Vineyard on Waiheke, or a Whale & Dolphin Cruise through the Hauraki Gulf.
Adventure
Dive into the waters around Rotoroa with snorkelling and swimming, try your hand at fishing, or get active exploring the island's hidden corners.
Heritage & Art
Discover Rotoroa's rich past through historic buildings, visit the cemetery, explore our museum, and encounter art installations and sculptures scattered across the island.
Volunteer
Roll up your sleeves and make a real difference - join our conservation efforts as an individual volunteer or bring your team for a meaningful corporate experience.
20+ Species of Birds
4 Beautiful Beaches
5 Scenic Walks
A Fascinating Past
You are welcome to go fishing on Rotoroa Island but please take only what you need and dispose of fishframes and shells in the sea. There is a high-protection area managed by the Department of Conservation, off the northern end of Rotoroa at Pakatoa Point.
