Discover the Untamed Beauty of Motutapu Island
Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Motutapu Island, a tranquil retreat in Auckland's stunning Hauraki Gulf.
Motutapu Island, a serene gem in Auckland's Hauraki Gulf, offers breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and an idyllic escape from the city. Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, this island is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking tranquility and adventure.
A brief summary to Motutapu Island
- Auckland, NZ
Local tips
- Bring your own picnic, as there are no food vendors on the island.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes for the trails, as some paths can be rugged.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your visit effectively.
- Consider visiting during the weekday to enjoy a quieter experience.
Getting There
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Ferry
To reach Motutapu Island, start from Auckland's central business district (CBD). Head to the Auckland Ferry Terminal located at 99 Quay Street. You can walk to the terminal in about 10-15 minutes from most central locations or take a bus or tram to Quay Street. At the terminal, look for the Fullers360 ferry service to Motutapu Island. Ferries typically operate several times a day, so check the schedule on the Fullers360 website or at the terminal. Purchase your ticket at the terminal or online. Once you board the ferry, enjoy the scenic ride which takes about 30-40 minutes. The ferry will drop you off at the Motutapu Island wharf.
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Public Transport
If you prefer to use public transport before boarding the ferry, you can take a bus from various points within Auckland to reach the ferry terminal. For instance, from Aotea Square, catch the Link bus (Green or Yellow Line) to the Britomart Transport Centre, and then take a short 5-minute walk to the Auckland Ferry Terminal. After arriving at the terminal, follow the instructions in the previous section to board the ferry to Motutapu Island.
Discover more about Motutapu Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Musick Point Memorial
9.2 km
Explore the historic Musick Point Memorial in Bucklands Beach, a serene tribute amidst stunning coastal views and rich military heritage.
Tainiu Memorial
11.8 km
Discover the Tainiu Memorial in Devonport, Auckland, a historical landmark celebrating maritime heritage amidst stunning coastal views.
Mission Bay Clock Totem
11.8 km
Discover the Mission Bay Clock Totem, a stunning historical landmark in Auckland that beautifully blends cultural heritage with breathtaking views.
Selwyn Domain
11.8 km
Discover the natural beauty of Selwyn Domain, a serene park in Mission Bay, Auckland, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Historical Fortifications - Fort Bastion
11.9 km
Discover the historic Fort Bastion in Auckland, where rich military heritage meets breathtaking coastal beauty.
Historic Anti-Aircraft Emplacements
12.4 km
Uncover the military history of Auckland at the Historic Anti-Aircraft Emplacements, offering breathtaking views and a unique glimpse into New Zealand's past.
Devonport War Memorial
12.8 km
Explore the Devonport War Memorial, a stunning historical landmark in Auckland that honors the sacrifices of brave New Zealanders throughout history.
Victoria Wharf
13.0 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Victoria Wharf in Devonport, Auckland's picturesque waterfront landmark.
Unique Castle in Auckland
13.5 km
Experience the allure of a fairytale stay at the Unique Castle in Auckland, where luxury meets whimsical charm in an unforgettable holiday apartment.
Urban Sanctuary
13.7 km
Discover tranquility at Urban Sanctuary in Auckland, where lush greenery meets breathtaking waterfront views for a perfect escape.
Dove Myer Robinson Park (Parnell Rose Garden)
14.8 km
Discover the beauty of Dove Myer Robinson Park, Auckland's exquisite rose garden and tranquil retreat for nature lovers and tourists alike.
Nancy Steen Garden
14.8 km
Discover the serene Nancy Steen Garden in Parnell, Auckland – a tranquil escape filled with vibrant flora and peaceful pathways for nature lovers.
Auckland Waterfront
15.5 km
Discover the Auckland Waterfront, a historical landmark where modern culture meets scenic waterfront views in the heart of New Zealand's largest city.
Maungarei Memorial Drive
15.5 km
Explore Maungarei Memorial Drive, Auckland's scenic route showcasing breathtaking views and outdoor adventures in a rich cultural setting.
Statue of Thomas Leslie Harvey
15.6 km
Explore the rich history of Auckland with a visit to the Statue of Thomas Leslie Harvey, a stunning tribute nestled in the scenic Parnell neighborhood.
Unmissable attractions to see
Motutapu public camp site
1.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Motutapu Island, a tranquil escape in Auckland perfect for camping and outdoor adventures amidst rich cultural heritage.
Rangitoto Island
5.0 km
Explore Rangitoto Island: A Volcanic Paradise near Auckland with Stunning Views and Unique Hiking Trails.
Motuihe Island / Te Motu-a-Ihenga
6.0 km
Escape to Motuihe Island, a tranquil oasis near Auckland, where stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant wildlife await your discovery.
Matiatia Walk
6.5 km
Explore the breathtaking views and serene trails of Matiatia Walk on Waiheke Island, a haven for hikers and nature lovers.
Enjoi Waiheke
7.2 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas and vineyards of Waiheke Island with Enjoi Waiheke's unforgettable sightseeing tours.
Gabriella Lewenz Artist | Gallery
7.4 km
Explore the Gabriella Lewenz Gallery on Waiheke Island, where art and nature harmoniously blend to create an unforgettable experience.
Browns Island / Motukorea
7.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich history of Browns Island / Motukorea, a hidden gem in Auckland's breathtaking Hauraki Gulf.
Te Rere
7.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Te Rere on Waiheke Island, where breathtaking views and tranquility await every visitor.
Cable Bay Vineyards
8.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines, exquisite dining, and breathtaking views at Cable Bay Vineyards on Waiheke Island, New Zealand.
Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
8.3 km
Discover the elegance of Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant on Waiheke Island, offering fine dining, exquisite wines, and breathtaking views.
Waiheke Community Art Gallery
8.5 km
Discover the vibrant artistic spirit of Waiheke Island at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, a must-visit cultural hub for every traveler.
[ s p a c e ] art gallery
8.7 km
Discover local artistry at [ s p a c e ] Art Gallery in Oneroa, Auckland—a vibrant hub for contemporary New Zealand art.
Toi Gallery
8.7 km
Explore Toi Gallery on Waiheke Island, a vibrant art hub showcasing local talent against a stunning backdrop of natural beauty.
Oneroa Bay, Waiheke Island. Auckland
8.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Oneroa Bay on Waiheke Island, where stunning beaches meet vibrant local culture for an unforgettable getaway.
Waiheke Wine Centre
8.8 km
Explore the Waiheke Wine Centre for a unique tasting experience of New Zealand's finest local wines in Oneroa, Auckland.
Essential places to dine
Lupino
11.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Lupino in Mission Bay - where local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Bald Eagle Diner
11.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Bald Eagle Diner in Mission Bay - where delicious food meets stunning waterfront views.
Bodrum Kitchen Mission Bay
11.8 km
Discover Bodrum Kitchen in Mission Bay: A delightful Turkish restaurant serving authentic dishes with stunning bay views.
Portofino
11.8 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors with breathtaking waterfront views at Portofino in Mission Bay, Auckland.
Miku Asian Eatery
11.8 km
Experience the best of Japanese and Korean cuisine at Miku Asian Eatery in Mission Bay – where flavors meet culture.
La Veranda - Steak and Seafood Restaurant
11.8 km
Experience exceptional steak and seafood dining at La Veranda in Mission Bay, Auckland – where every meal comes with stunning waterfront views.
Oak Barrel Wine House
11.8 km
Savor exquisite wines and delicious dishes at Oak Barrel Wine House in Mission Bay – where culinary artistry meets stunning waterfront views.
Mamma Mia Restaurant 1972
11.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Mamma Mia Restaurant in Mission Bay – where delicious pizzas meet stunning ocean views.
Azabu Mission Bay
11.9 km
Discover Azabu Mission Bay: A fusion of exquisite Japanese cuisine and stunning coastal views in Auckland's vibrant dining scene.
Tonnino Pizzeria
11.9 km
Discover Tonnino Pizzeria in Mission Bay - Authentic Italian cuisine with stunning waterfront views in Auckland.
The Nicolino Restaurant & Cube Bar
12.6 km
Experience the best of Greek and Italian cuisine at The Nicolino Restaurant & Cube Bar in Devonport - a must-visit culinary destination.
Buona Sera
12.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Buona Sera in Devonport – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Signal Hill Restaurant
12.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine at Signal Hill Restaurant in Devonport - your culinary haven in Auckland.
The Patriot-Your Devonport Pub
12.6 km
Discover The Patriot in Devonport: A gastropub offering delicious food and local brews amidst charming coastal vibes.
Vic Road Kitchen
12.7 km
Vic Road Kitchen: Experience Devonport's finest dining with fresh local ingredients and an inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Attic
11.5 km
Discover The Attic in Devonport, Auckland – your destination for unique gifts and local artistry that embody the spirit of New Zealand.
Kāpiti at Mission Bay
11.8 km
Experience the sweet delights of Kāpiti at Mission Bay, where ice cream and coffee meet stunning seaside views in Auckland.
Vape Time
11.9 km
Discover the ultimate vaping experience at Vape Time in Auckland, offering a diverse range of products and a friendly atmosphere for all enthusiasts.
Tasman Trading Company Limited
12.0 km
Explore Tasman Trading Company Limited in Auckland for unique local crafts and souvenirs that reflect New Zealand's vibrant culture.
GypsyGlamourGallery
12.2 km
Explore GypsyGlamourGallery in Devonport for unique local art and crafts, capturing the essence of New Zealand's vibrant creativity.
Echo Designer Boutique
12.6 km
Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Echo Designer Boutique, a stylish haven in Devonport, Auckland, where elegance meets contemporary trends.
Vintage Recycled Shop
12.6 km
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Cosi Fan Tutte
12.6 km
Discover unique artisanal goods and local crafts at Cosi Fan Tutte, a charming shop in Devonport, Auckland, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
MIXT NZ art + design
12.6 km
Explore a vibrant gift shop and art gallery in Devonport, Auckland, featuring unique New Zealand-made products and artistic treasures.
ECHO Designer Living
12.6 km
Explore the charm of ECHO Designer Living in Devonport, where unique gifts and local artistry come together in a delightful shopping experience.
UK Treats
12.7 km
Explore the charm of UK Treats, where exquisite gift baskets filled with local delicacies and souvenirs await in Mission Bay, Auckland.
Lolly Drop NZ
12.7 km
Discover a candy lover's paradise at Lolly Drop NZ in Mission Bay, Auckland, where sweet dreams come true with every delightful treat.
Blue Illusion Devonport NZ
12.8 km
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Devonport Arts and Gifts
12.8 km
Explore Devonport Arts and Gifts for unique New Zealand souvenirs and local artistry in a charming setting.
Second Avenue
12.8 km
Explore Second Avenue in Takapuna, Auckland for unique second-hand fashion and sustainable shopping. Discover treasures while supporting local initiatives.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Charcoal Grill & Bar
11.8 km
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Mission Bay Cafe
11.8 km
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De Fontein Belgian Beer Café
11.8 km
Experience the taste of Belgium at De Fontein Belgian Beer Café, a delightful bar and restaurant in Mission Bay, Auckland, perfect for food and beer lovers.
Mission Bay Tap Room - Good George
11.8 km
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Kilala Bar + Kitchen
11.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Kilala Bar + Kitchen, your ideal dining destination in Mission Bay, Auckland.
Vic Road Wine Bar
12.7 km
Experience the best of local wines and delightful bites at Vic Road Wine Bar in Devonport, Auckland, a must-visit for all wine enthusiasts.
Tiny Triumphs
12.7 km
Explore the lively atmosphere of Tiny Triumphs, a charming bar in Devonport, Auckland, known for its exquisite drinks and local charm.
The Devonport Public House
12.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local charm at The Devonport Public House, a must-visit bar in Auckland's scenic Devonport suburb.
The Esplanade Hotel
12.8 km
Experience the charm and coastal beauty of The Esplanade Hotel in Devonport, Auckland, where history meets modern comfort.
Faraday's Bar
15.1 km
Discover Auckland's exquisite Faraday's Bar in Parnell, where elegance meets quality in a stunning setting, perfect for wine lovers and casual drinkers alike.
The Paddington
15.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Paddington, Auckland's beloved sports bar with delicious food, drinks, and live sports action.
46 & York
15.5 km
Experience the best of Auckland at 46 & York, a lively bar and restaurant offering unique cocktails, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Pineapple on Parnell
15.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Parnell at Pineapple on Parnell, where exotic cocktails and fine wines await in a lively atmosphere.
Crossroads Wines
15.6 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand's wine culture at Crossroads Wines in Parnell, Auckland - a must-visit bar for wine lovers.
The Paw Bar & Eatery Parnell
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Paw Bar & Eatery in Parnell, Auckland, where delicious food meets exciting live entertainment.