Working Weekends
Working Weekends Working Weekends are a wonderful way to help out, get to know the island better and be part of what is happening on Tiritiri Matangi. Four times a year on the Working Weekends you have the opportunity to join longer-term large projects such as infrastructure restoration and improvements, building and track upgrades and maintenance, and occasionally, biodiversity enhancements. Or you might find that much needed restorative clearing of tracks is what suits you. There is always a variety of tasks some of which may include heavy lifting and require a good level of fitness however there are also less strenuous tasks for those less energetic. Many of the working weekenders are regulars who love the sense of contributing to the Island and enjoy the camaraderie in the bunkhouse at the end of the day. Before a shared dinner, you will have time for a walk and maybe a swim. Often after morning, there is the opportunity to hear the birds’ chorus as they greet the sun at dawn. Hosted by some of our most experienced guides, there are a number of activities held throughout the weekend, including a night walk and a dawn chorus outing. Working Weekends occur on Auckland Anniversary Day, Easter, King’s Birthday and Labour Weekends. Workdays are 8:00am – 4:00pm with an hour for lunch. All enquiries and bookings can be made through the…
Supporters Weekends
Supporters' WeekendsCome and enjoy an overnight stay on the island and experience the camaraderie of other Supporters on a fascinating night walk and the early morning dawn chorus. You can also join in with one of the guided tours either on Saturday or Sunday. Explore Group offer half-price ferry fares on application to jenny@exploregroup.co.nz and quote your membership number. The bunkhouse cost is $48 per night per adult, $37 per child 0-17 years inclusive Contact the Guide Manager on shop@tiritirimatangi.org.nz for inquiries or bookings. Please quote your membership number and contact phone number. Your membership must be current at the time of your stay to be eligible. Bookings for these weekends close and must be paid for one month prior to the event. Dates for 2026 7 March 9 May 11 July 5 September 10 October
Tiritiri Matangi Talks
Tiritiri Matangi TalksOur SoTM Tiritiri Matangi Talks are free for all supporters. These talks are held in the evenings in Central Auckland.
Photography Walks
Tiritiri Matangi Photography WalksJoin the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi for a Guided Photography Walk - a unique experience for anyone with an interest in photography visiting Tiritiri Matangi IslandCapture the magic of Tiritiri Matangi Island through the lens on these special walks with an experienced Supporter of Tiritiri Matangi Island photographer. Duration: 2 hour guided walk Click to book2025 dates: Saturday 29 March Saturday 12 April Saturday 26 April Saturday 3 May
Book Launch - The Lights in My Life Sunday 5th October
Book Launch - The Lights in My Life Sunday 5th October Join us on Tiritiri Matangi Island to celebrate the launch of “The Lights in My Life”, the memoirs of Ray Walter — the island’s last lighthouse keeper and a passionate conservationist behind the island’s successful planting programme in the 1980s and 90s. The Tiritiri Matangi Lighthouse, built in 1865, is New Zealand’s oldest working lighthouse and was once one of the most powerful in the Southern Hemisphere. Its 32-metre cast-iron tower guided countless ships safely through the hazardous waters of the Hauraki Gulf for over a century. On launch day, explore the Lighthouse Museum housed in the historic keepers’ cottages, step inside the first floor of the lighthouse, and hear stories that capture a bygone era of maritime history. Ray’s memoirs, completed by author Anne Rimmer with the support of the Walter family, offer a rare and heartfelt glimpse into life as a lighthouse keeper. This is a unique opportunity to connect with New Zealand’s maritime heritage and celebrate the legacy of one of Tiritiri’s most dedicated guardians. The book will be available for purchase exclusively on the island. Come along and be part of this special day! Image credit: Geoff Beals To purchase your ferry ticket
Tiritiri Matangi Dawn Chorus
Tiritiri Matangi Dawn Chorus 4th October 2025This is a unique opportunity to start the day with New Zealand’s original dawn chorus surrounded by native bush and birdlife as the sun rises over the beautiful Hauraki Gulf...Every spring, the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi, in conjunction with Explore Group and the Department of Conservation, organise a special early morning ferry for visitors to experience the Tiritiri Matangi Dawn Chorus. Spring is the very best time to visit the island for the Dawn Chorus – immerse yourself in birdsong surrounded by rare birds and native forest as the sun rises…and with a little luck you may even hear the exclusive kōkako! Book now Saturday 4 October (rain date 11th October) Times Departs Auckland: 4:00am | via Gulf Harbour: 4:55am | Arrives Tiritiri Matangi Island: 5:20am Departs Tiritiri Matangi Island: 10:00am | via Gulf Harbour: 10:25am | Arrives Auckland: 11:15am Please be at the wharf 15 minutes prior to your confirmed departure time Duration 7 hours