Tiritiri Matangi Island Discovery - from Auckland

Auckland , New Zealand

Tiritiri Matangi Island Discovery - from Auckland

Active

(10 reviews)

5h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a cruise through Tikapa Moana - the Hauraki Gulf on our premium cruise fleet as we make our way to island sanctuary Tiritiri Matangi.

This pest-free island provides a safe haven for a wide range of native species including kōkako, takahē, tīeke and tuatara, that can’t easily be seen anywhere else around the Auckland region, so glimpsing these rare animals is a highlight for many visitors.

Enjoy the time to explore the island's other established walking tracks with dramatic cliff tops, native bush and New Zealand's oldest working lighthouse! For a relaxing afternoon, opt for an easy 10-minute walk from Tiritiri wharf along the coastline to Hobbs Beach, which is the perfect spot for a picnic or a swim.

This island feels like another world all easily accessed from central Auckland or Gulf Harbour.

Departing from Auckland Viaduct: Wed-Fri departs 9:00am | Sat/Sun departs 8:30am
Departing from Gulf Harbour (Whangaparaoa): Wed-Fri departs 9:55am | Sat/Sun departs 9:25am

Available options

8:30am from Auckland Viaduct

Departs Tiritiri Matangi 4pm

9:25am from Gulf Harbour

Departs Tiritiri Matangi 4pm

9:00am from Auckland Viaduct

Depart Tiritiri Matangi 2:40pm

9:55am from Gulf Harbour

Depart Tiritiri Matangi 2:40pm

What's included

Return Ferry from Auckland Viaduct or Gulf Harbour

Multiple hours to explore Tiritiri Matangi Island's walking tracks and beaches.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Restroom on board

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This pest-free island provides a safe haven for a wide range of native species including kōkako, takahē, tīeke and more to flourish. Enjoy the time to explore the island's other established walking tracks with dramatic cliff tops, native bush and quiet beaches. This island feels like another world all easily accessed from central Auckland or Gulf Harbour.

Stop 2 Pass by

Enjoy an 80-minute cruise each way through the Hauraki Gulf from Auckland Viaduct or 20-minute express cruise from Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula.

What's not included

Food and drinks not available on Island - please bring a packed lunch.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.4

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

80-minute journey from Auckland Viaduct or 20-minute journey from Gulf Harbour

No food or drinks available on island - can be purchased on board ferry if required.

Food brought onto island must be in a sealed container or bag to keep the island pest-free.

Departs Tiritiri Matangi 2:40pm on Weekdays or 4:00pm on Weekends

15 minutes prior to departure

Meeting point

If you have booked to depart from Gulf Harbour, please wait at the end of the ferry wharf at least 15 minutes prior to departure, where the vessel will stop by to pick you up. Please check you booking to ensure you are departing at 9:55am on weekdays or 9:25am on weekends.

About Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Auckland Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump

Auckland War Memorial Museum

This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.

Nature Full day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Adventure Half day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.

Family 2-3 hours NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hāngī

A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.

Dinner Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Gluten-free, can be made vegan

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Skydiving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Maori cultural performances Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center

By train

Auckland Railway Station

By bus

Auckland Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Ponsonby Devonport Mission Bay

Day trips

Waiheke Island

35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Rangitoto Island

25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Hobbiton Movie Set

2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Festivals

Auckland Arts Festival • March Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November Auckland Pride Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.