We welcome visitors to Rotoroa Island by scheduled ferry, private boat, charter, water-taxi, kayak, helicopter or seaplane – the choice is yours!

Book Your Ferry

Just 75 min from downtown Auckland, a ferry service from Viaduct Harbour to Rotoroa Island is offered by our friends at Explore Group.

Ferry Timetable

Summer Season: 27 October 2025 – 1 May 2026

Monday – Thursday

Depart Auckland Viaduct 9:15am > Arrive Rotoroa 10:30am

Depart Rotoroa 2:25pm > Arrive Auckland Viaduct 4:00pm

Friday

Depart Auckland Viaduct 4:45pm > Arrive Rotoroa 6:00pm

Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays

Depart Auckland Viaduct 9:30am > Arrive Rotoroa 10:45am

Depart Rotoroa 11:30am > Arrive Auckland Viaduct 12:45pm

Depart Rotoroa 2:55pm > Arrive Auckland Viaduct 4:10pm

Depart Rotoroa 5:50pm > Arrive Auckland Viaduct 7:05pm

New

Friday Night Ferry

To make it even easier for a weekend escape, Explore Group's new Friday night service departing from Auckland at 4:45pm will ensure you can make the most of the longer days and warmer weather.

Book online

Other ways to get here

Before you arrive

No Dogs

Dogs are not permitted on the island—not on leashes, not on beaches, and not below high water mark. Our takahē family, chicks, and visiting kiwi depend on this protection to thrive safely.

No Fires

Open fires are not permitted anywhere on Rotoroa Island. Instead, enjoy barbecues at our designated picnic spots with electric BBQs available at Home Bay and Ladies Bay—perfect for a seaside meal with all the convenience and safety.

Check Your Gear for Pests

Inspect all gear—especially camping equipment—for rats, mice, ants, plague skinks, soil, and seeds. Pay extra attention if Argentine ants or plague skinks are present where you live. Small animals and eggs hide easily in gear and soil.

Seal Everything

Pack all food in sealed containers and keep all bags zipped closed. Seal boxes completely—no holes. Rodents can squeeze through gaps as small as 7–12mm. Notify catering companies you're travelling to a pest-free island.

Pack In—Pack Out

Take all rubbish home with you. Clean your clothing, footwear, and gear to remove soil and seeds before and after your trip. Use the cleaning stations at the departure pier to brush your shoes before boarding the ferry.