Motuihe Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Motuihe Island is easily accessible via regular ferry services departing from downtown Auckland, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes across the sparkling Hauraki Gulf. Visitors can also reach the island via water taxi or private boat, with moorings available in several protected bays. If driving to the ferry terminal, numerous parking options exist in downtown Auckland, though public transport connections via bus or train to the ferry building are recommended during peak periods. Remember to check the ferry schedule in advance as services may vary seasonally, and booking ahead is advised during summer months and holidays.

Nestled in Auckland's Hauraki Gulf, Motuihe Island offers a peaceful retreat just a short ferry ride from the city. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and restored native bush, this conservation island presents the perfect balance of natural beauty and accessibility. The island's rich Māori and European history adds depth to its stunning landscapes, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Motuihe Island shines during the New Zealand summer (December to February) when warm temperatures of 20-25°C provide perfect conditions for swimming and beach activities. Autumn (March to May) offers milder weather and fewer visitors, creating a more tranquil experience while still allowing for comfortable hiking and wildlife spotting. Ferry services run more frequently during summer months, making island access more convenient. Spring (September to November) brings wildflowers and increased bird activity as native species nest, though occasional rain showers may occur. Winter visits (June to August) offer a different perspective with peaceful solitude, though ferry services may be limited.

Motuihe serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Auckland's magnificent Hauraki Gulf islands. Nearby Waiheke Island, just a short ferry hop away, entices visitors with its acclaimed wineries, olive groves, and artistic community. Rangitoto Island, a distinctive volcanic cone visible from Motuihe, offers fascinating geological exploration and panoramic views after a 25-minute ferry journey. For wildlife enthusiasts, Tiritiri Matangi Island's bird sanctuary lies within easy reach, providing opportunities to spot rare native species in a protected environment. The proximity of these diverse destinations makes Motuihe an ideal base for island-hopping adventures throughout the gulf.

Motuihe Island boasts some of Auckland's most pristine beaches, with Ocean Beach and Wharf Beach offering excellent swimming and snorkeling in clear, sheltered waters. History buffs can explore the remnants of the island's quarantine station and POW camp, with interpretive signs detailing its fascinating past. The island's restoration project has reintroduced native birds including the little spotted kiwi and saddleback, making birdwatching particularly rewarding along the network of walking tracks that crisscross the island. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas, as the island has no shops or restaurants – though the lack of commercial development is precisely what preserves its natural charm.

During World War I, Motuihe served as the site of perhaps New Zealand's most famous prison break when the German Count Felix von Luckner escaped from internment in 1917, commandeering a boat before eventually being recaptured. The island's name derives from Māori, with 'motu' meaning island and 'ihe' referring to a type of fish spear, reflecting its historical importance as a fishing ground. Archaeological evidence suggests Motuihe has been inhabited for over 700 years, with Māori occupation predating European arrival by centuries. The island's ecological restoration represents one of New Zealand's most successful conservation projects, with volunteers having planted over 350,000 native trees since 2000.