Guided Tours
When you visit Tiritiri Matangi you have the option of taking a guided walk from the wharf up to the Visitor Centre (next to the lighthouse). For first-time visitors especially, this will greatly enhance your enjoyment of the island.
Guides can tell you about the plants and animals you see and hear, identify archaeological sites, tell you about the early settlement of the island and its recent history as a sanctuary.
We cater for Tour Groups with customised tours to fit the needs of your party. Get in touch and let us know how many are in your group, what special interests they have ( e.g. birdlife, native plants, reforestation, maritime history) and when you plan to visit. We can then create a specialist guided walk that will excite your clients and be great for your business.
Three routes are used for guided walks:
Wattle Track - up to 1.5 hours
This walk goes through replanted bush where the canopy is still low, which means you have a good chance of seeing birds close up. There are water troughs and sugar water feeding stations, which are popular spots with the birdlife.
Kawerau Track - up to 2.5 hours
This is a varied walk that takes in the coastline, replanted bush and also an area of original bush which has some very old trees. From the top of the island there are views across the Hauraki Gulf.
Moana Rua Route/Coast to Coast - about 2 hours
This walk requires a reasonable level of fitness due to some steep sections along the way. It showcases the island’s position in the Hauraki Gulf, taking in both coastlines as well as replanted bush.
Book Your Tour...
Bookings for guided walks are made with Explore at the time that you book your ferry ticket – phone 0800 397 567. Although we maybe able to accommodate people on the day, to avoid disappointment it is advised that you book your guided walk prior to arriving on the island.
How to become a guide
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer guide, please contact guiding@tiritirimatangi.org.nz. In your email, please include a little bit of information about yourself and why you are interested in becoming a guide.
Guides have to undertake training and must have a reasonable level of fitness.