Motuora Island walks: quiet bays and a northern loop

Motuora is a good choice for a quieter island outing when you can arrange your own boat transport. Home Bay gives you several walking options, from a short picnic walk to a longer circuit towards the northern end.

Where it is

Home Bay, Motuora Island.

Follow the route

1. Northern Loop: allow about 2 hours return from Home Bay, climbing through replanted paddocks and returning along the clifftop.
2. Still Bay: allow about 1 hour return. Walk uphill past the concrete water tanks, then descend to the bay and retrace your steps.
3. Macrocarpa Bay: allow about 1½ hours return. Continue south past the tanks, descend through bush and return along the beach only when the tide permits.

Route map

DOC’s map shows the bays and connecting tracks. Home Bay is the starting point for the options described here. Tap the map to enlarge it.

What to expect

The walks combine open grass, regenerating habitat and sheltered bays. Pick one main route and leave time for a stop rather than trying to fit every path around a tight collection time.

Getting ready

Access is by private boat, water taxi or kayak. Arrange a suitable landing and return plan before travelling. Bring food and drinking water; kayaking here requires a separate marine-weather and paddling plan.

Before you go: The Macrocarpa Bay beach section may be impassable at spring high tides. Use Still Bay’s return route if you want to avoid a tidal beach return. No dogs or other pets.

What I’d bring

I’d pack lunch, water, a raincoat and a warm layer, with shoes that grip on wet grass. I’d save the map and collection details offline, check and seal my gear for island biosecurity, and take all rubbish home.

Sources and credits

Sources checked 26 September 2026. Official walking information and map; DOC island map (PDF).

Aerial imagery: LINZ and Imagery Basemap contributors, CC BY 4.0. Island map: Department of Conservation, CC BY 4.0.