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Location & access
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route. Check the official route directions before travel.
Official location informationLocation source
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route.
Reference point: -36.81013, 174.94442. WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
DOC Maps walking and tramping reference point (WGS84), exact official-page GUID / Department of Conservation. Checked 2026-10-12.
Key facts
- Distance
- 1 to 6.5 km return via same track
- Walking time
- 20 min to 3 hrs one way
- Track grade
- Easy
- Location
- Motuihe Island / Te Motu-a-Ihenga
- Dog access
- No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
Enjoy our rarest birds, ancient native trees and unique limestone formations in this selection of easy walks.
This DOC directory entry covers Motuihe Island tracks in Auckland, within Motuihe Island / Te Motu-a-Ihenga. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: 1 to 6.5 km return via same track
- Walking time: 20 min to 3 hrs one way
- DOC grade: Easy
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Dog access
No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
Motuihe Island tracks provide access to a range of diverse and interesting bush, beaches, and sights. It is always possible to find a beach for a picnic, sheltered from any direction of wind.
Tracks are an easy gradient, and walking times assume a leisurely pace with stops. They have mown grass except for the bush part of the Tieke track, which is formed and metalled.
Tieke Track
Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hrsDistance: 5 km return to the wharf
Tieke Track is in the middle of the island. It is accessed from the wharf and beaches around the island via marked tracks. Many native birds can be seen and heard on this walk.
The walk passes under ancient native trees, which are home to a wide variety of birds including the rare saddleback/tieke. There is a seat overlooking Wharf Bay along the way, where you can view a geologically significant pancake limestone formation.
The track emerges from the bush near the ridgeline. You can then head south to Nga Taikorapa, or north towards the wharf or other beaches.
Eastern Beaches Track
Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hrsDistance: 5.5 km return to the wharf
This loop walk is an easy gradient on a grass track with outstanding views of the Hauraki Gulf, beaches and regenerating bush.
There are some marked tracks that link to this walk. These provide quick access routes to other destinations. It offers access to Ocean Beach, Snapper Bay, Calypso Bay and views over Ohinerau Bay.
Bald Knob Track
Time: 2 to 3 hrsDistance: 6.5 km return to the wharf
The Bald Knob Track takes visitors to the southern end of the island. It travels through regenerating bush and pasture and ends at a secluded sandy beach.
The track follows the ridgeline, which offers panoramic views of Hauraki Gulf. Then as you progress, you can enjoy more views looking over Wharf Bay to Rangitoto.
Headland Heritage Walk
Time: 20 - 45 minDistance: 1 km return
Headland Heritage Walk starts at a sealed road at the tree lined slope past the toilets by the campsite. This path heads towards the cemetery, which is at the most northern point of the island.
The road passes historic olives planted in the 1860s and takes in panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour Hauraki Gulf Islands. The walk ends at the historic 1918 Spanish Flu graveyard.
Getting there
Several operators offer boat transfer to and from Motuihe Wharf at set times. Arrive for collection promptly when leaving the island, as alternative arrangements may not be available.
There is a good boat anchorage adjacent to the Motuihe campsite for those arriving by boat. This is located on the North-western headland of Motuihe Island/Te Motu-a-Ihenga.
Know before you go
No fires
There is a total fire ban in this area. However, you may use gas-fuelled cooking equipment.
Hazards
Beware of cliff edges. Supervise children at all times while on the track.
Historic structures may be unstable. Stay well clear.
Be aware of ferry departure times - alternative transport or accommodation may not be available.
No dogs
No dogs are allowed on the island. This includes no dogs on the shore or foreshore.
Facilities
Toilets are near the track to the wharf.
There is nowhere to dispose of rubbish - take all your rubbish with you.
Camping
Overnight camping is allowed in designated areas only.
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
