Auckland
Motuihe Island walks: beaches, bush and four routes to choose from
| Where | Motuihe / Te Motu-a-Ihenga, Hauraki Gulf |
|---|---|
| Walking options | 1–6.5 km return; about 20 minutes to 3 hours |
| Terrain | Mostly mown grass, with a formed gravel bush section |
| Start | Motuihe Wharf; confirm your boat landing and collection point |
| Facilities | Toilets near the wharf track; bring food and drinking water |
Where it is
What to expect
Motuihe suits a relaxed island day with beaches, birdlife and gentle hills. Choose a short heritage walk near the wharf or head further south for bush and Gulf views. Grass can be slippery when wet, and the open ridges leave you exposed to sun and wind.
Getting there and finding the start
Arrange your boat transport before planning the walking day. DOC lists summer passenger services and private charters; check the operator’s actual sailing dates and book the return. At Motuihe Wharf, read the island map and confirm where you’ll be collected. The ramp and wharf can be slippery.
Choose your walk
Headland Heritage Walk — 1 km return, 20–45 minutes
From the campsite toilets, take the sealed road up the tree-lined slope towards the northern cemetery. This is the shortest option, with historic olive trees and harbour views.
Tieke Track — 5 km return from the wharf, 1½–2½ hours
Follow the marked connections into the island’s central bush. Ancient trees, birdsong and a seat overlooking Wharf Bay make this a good choice for a slower walk. The bush section has a formed gravel surface, and the route emerges near the ridge.
Eastern Beaches Track — 5.5 km return from the wharf, 1½–2½ hours
This grassy loop links coastal views, regenerating bush and access to Ocean Beach, Snapper Bay and Calypso Bay. Pick this option for a beach-focused outing, with time to stop before heading back.
Bald Knob Track — 6.5 km return from the wharf, 2–3 hours
The longest of these options follows the ridge towards the island’s southern end, through pasture and regenerating bush to a secluded beach. It offers broad Gulf views and a longer walk away from the arrival area.
Island map
Tap the map to enlarge it. DOC’s island map uses some older track names; use current signs for the four walks above.
What I’d bring
I’d take grippy walking shoes, lunch, enough drinking water for the whole visit, a sunhat and sunscreen. A light raincoat and warm layer are useful on the exposed ridges. I’d save the map and collection details on my phone, and carry a small first-aid kit and rubbish bag.
Choose one main walk, then leave room for stops and your return boat. Stay clear of cliff edges and fenced historic structures, including the old water tower. Leave dogs at home and check, clean and seal your bags to protect the pest-free island.
Sources and credits
Research checked 26 September 2026. DOC walking options; DOC island access and facilities.
Photo and island map: Department of Conservation, CC BY 4.0. Location imagery: LINZ and Imagery Basemap contributors, CC BY 4.0; cropped with location labels.