Ferry from New Zealand to Motuihe Island

About New Zealand

New Zealand is an island nation in the south-west Pacific Ocean consisting of the North and South Islands, approximately 1,500 kilometres east of Australia. When it comes to awe-inspiring natural backdrops, New Zealand’s landscape tops the list. Glacial fjords, jagged mountains, rolling green plains, cascading rivers, active volcanoes and idyllic beaches fill this 268,021-sq-km nation. Also, with a population of just 4.6 million, it offers the ideal scenery for long, peaceful hikes. When it comes to urban areas, New Zealand doesn’t fail to deliver, either. The capital, Wellington is the cultural hub, characterised by Victorian architecture and a vibrant downtown, whilst the affluent Auckland, with its iconic Sky Tower, boasts superb restaurants and a superyacht-filled harbour. As a country comprising 2 main islands and numerous offshore islets, travelling by ferry is a popular way to get around New Zealand. There are plenty of fast crossings to the Hauraki Islands by Auckland, between the North and South Islands and to Stewart Island in the south.

About Motuihe Island

Motuihe Island is in the Hauraki Gulf, a large stretch of water to the northeast of Auckland, New Zealand. Defined by a tumultuous human history and enticing beaches, this recreation reserve is one of the country’s greatest escapes, lying just a thirty minute ferry ride from the hustle and bustle of Auckland. With Maori origins, Motuihe became a scarlet fever quarantine in the late 19th Century, a First World War prison camp and, finally, a naval training base during the 1940s, with many fascinating remnants still visible today. Camping remains a popular activity, thanks to the efficient pest eradication and recent flourishing of indigenous trees and plants. A successful conservation programme has resulted in some wonderful bush walks, too, where you may spot some of the rare little spotted kiwi birds, released onto the island in 2009. Motuihe is a short ferry ride from the port of Auckland, with weekly crossings to the island’s north-western tip.