Tiritiri Matangi Island is a conservation success story of international significance. Thousands of trees, planted by volunteers, and the subsequent release of many rare and endangered species have produced today's world-famous Open Sanctuary near Auckland, New Zealand. The island, which also has a historic lighthouse, attracts over 30,000 visitors per year. It is administered by the Department of Conservation and assisted by volunteers. Tiritiri Matangi was the model for many of the newer sanctuaries now established throughout New Zealand.

This book describes the island's history, its Māori occupation, the farming period, wartime activities, the historic lighthouse (which has shone since 1865) as well as the subsequent conservation project.

Although aimed at the general reader, the book also contains data on the island's flora and fauna, with sections on each endagered bird. Its lavish illustrations include rare historical photographs and magical bird studies.

Winner of Montana Book Awards environment section 2005

See also: A subsequent 88-page supplement titled “Tiritiri Matangi 2005-2020” published by Anne Rimmer in 2021. This book contains all-new material and photographs, bringing the history of the island right up to date.

“Tiritiri Matangi 2005-2020” is also available for purchase from both out on-island and on-line shops.