Urupukapuka Island

Urupukapuka Island is the Bay of Islands’ best-kept secret that’s too good not to share. As the largest of the 144 islands in the Bay, this 208-hectare (514-acre) pest-free sanctuary offers something increasingly rare: an accessible island paradise where native birds sing, pristine beaches remain uncrowded, and ancient history lies preserved beneath your feet. Its Māori name means “the island of many pūkeko” – referencing a large-leafed native tree once prevalent throughout the Bay.

Just 40 minutes by ferry from Paihia or Russell, Urupukapuka combines the convenience of easy access with the tranquillity of island isolation. Since becoming a Recreation Reserve in 1979, it’s the only island in the Bay fully open and accessible to the public year-round. Thanks to Project Island Song’s restoration work, the island is now completely pest-free, allowing rare native birds like tīeke (saddleback), toutouwai (North Island robin), and pōpokotea (whitehead) to flourish in regenerating forests.

The island offers extraordinary diversity compressed into one accessible location. Walk archaeological trails past 66 significant Māori sites including eight fortified pā, swim in crystal-clear bays perfect for snorkelling, paddle between secluded beaches, or simply relax on golden sand listening to birdsong. From gentle 10-minute strolls offering 360-degree views to challenging 5-hour circuit walks, from family-friendly beaches to adventurous kayaking, Urupukapuka rewards whatever level of exploration you choose. Whether visiting for a few hours or camping overnight, this island proves that New Zealand’s most special places remain within reach of everyday travellers.

Why Urupukapuka Matters

Urupukapuka represents thousands of years of human history and groundbreaking conservation success. The island was first settled by Ngare Raumati, one of the Bay of Islands’ oldest tribes, with archaeological evidence showing at least eight fortified pā, numerous villages, and food storage pits – some up to 1,000 years old. The density and preservation of these 66+ archaeological sites make Urupukapuka one of New Zealand’s most significant archaeological islands.

European history includes farming from the mid-1800s and, notably, American author Zane Grey’s 1927 game-fishing base at Otehei Bay. Grey’s subsequent book established the Bay of Islands as a world-famous game-fishing destination, with some original buildings from this era still visible today.

The Crown acquired Urupukapuka in 1970 and gazetted it as a Recreation Reserve in 1979. The real transformation came with Project Island Song, which successfully eradicated all pests by 2015 despite the island being just 1km from the mainland and receiving 100,000-200,000 annual visitors. This allows rare species to thrive: North Island saddlebacks now number around 600 on Urupukapuka and neighbouring Moturua, while North Island robins, whiteheads, red-crowned parakeets, and giant wētā flourish in regenerating forests. The transformation from silent farmland to forests alive with birdsong demonstrates what’s possible through dedicated conservation. For tangata whenua, particularly Te Rawhiti communities, Urupukapuka remains a place of high cultural significance.

What to See & Do on Urupukapuka Island

Otehei Bay – The Island Gateway

Otehei Bay is where your Urupukapuka adventure begins. This sheltered bay on the island’s southern side offers golden sand, calm swimming waters, and stunning views across the Bay of Islands. The main ferry wharf, café, and visitor facilities are located here, making it the natural hub for island activities.

Take the easy 10-minute climb to the lookout point on your right as you disembark – you’ll be rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views stretching from Kerikeri Inlet to Russell, Waitangi, Cape Brett, and the scattered islands throughout the Bay. This short walk alone justifies the ferry journey for those with limited time or mobility.

The Island Conservation Centre operates at Otehei Bay from December 26 to February 6 annually, offering fascinating information about the island’s history, Project Island Song’s restoration work, and the Bay of Islands marine mammal sanctuary. The centre hosts children’s activity days and includes a pop-up library. The Providore’s Gallery, which opened in 2024, showcases Northland artists.

The licensed café offers meals, refreshments, and beachfront seating (operating hours vary seasonally). Kayak and paddleboard hire is available during peak summer months, perfect for exploring nearby bays without committing to longer walks.

Walking Tracks

Urupukapuka’s network of walking tracks ranges from easy strolls to challenging hikes, all showcasing spectacular coastal scenery, native bush, and archaeological sites.

Urupukapuka Island Archaeological Walk (7.3km, 3-5 hours): The island’s signature track is designed to be walked clockwise and can be accessed from most major beaches. Rather than one continuous trail, it’s a series of interconnected loops, allowing flexible itineraries. The full circuit typically takes 5 hours, but can be broken into shorter 2-3 hour sections.

The walk passes numerous pristinely preserved archaeological sites with interpretation panels explaining features like fortified pā sites, village locations, garden terraces, and food storage pits. The archaeological diversity and preservation state make this one of New Zealand’s finest accessible heritage walks. Beyond history, the trail delivers constant scenic rewards: dramatic coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, regenerating native forest, and panoramic viewpoints across the Bay of Islands.

Otehei Bay to Urupukapuka Bay (2.5-3 hours return): The shortest popular walk leads over the hill from Otehei Bay to Urupukapuka Bay, where DOC operates camping facilities. This route provides excellent views with less demanding distance, perfect for half-day visitors.

Bay-hopping variations: Adventurous walkers can extend their journey to visit Paradise Bay, Cable Bay, Sunset Bay, and other hidden coves. Some visitors walk 11-12km covering all accessible beaches in 4-5 hours of walking.

All tracks involve some steep sections, but reward the effort with stunning maritime vistas, excellent native forest regeneration, and the constant soundtrack of rare native birds. Track conditions are generally good, though sturdy footwear is recommended.

Beaches & Water Activities

Urupukapuka’s coastline spans 13.5km with numerous pristine beaches, each offering different character and shelter from varying wind conditions. The waters around Urupukapuka are exceptionally clear, making snorkelling and diving excellent, particularly along the eastern coast where plentiful reef life thrives. The island’s pest-free status and conservation efforts extend to protecting marine environments in the surrounding Bay of Islands Marine Mammal Sanctuary. Bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted during ferry journeys.

Kayak and paddleboard hire at Otehei Bay (summer only) allows exploration of sheltered bays without extensive walking. The calm, protected waters make Urupukapuka ideal for beginners while offering enough variety for experienced paddlers.

Wildlife & Birdwatching

Urupukapuka’s transformation into a pest-free sanctuary has returned native wildlife to levels unseen on the mainland for generations. The island now serves as a living example of New Zealand’s pre-human ecosystems.

Native Forest Birds: Project Island Song has successfully reintroduced North Island robins (toutouwai), North Island saddlebacks (tīeke), whiteheads (pōpokotea), and red-crowned parakeets (kākāriki). These birds, once restricted to offshore islands or absent entirely, now thrive in Urupukapuka’s regenerating forests. Saddlebacks, in particular, have exploded from a single remnant population to an estimated 600 birds on Urupukapuka and Moturua – their constant chatter now creates the cacophony of calls early explorers described.

Coastal & Wetland Birds: New Zealand dotterels (tūturiwhatu), oystercatchers (torea), pied stilts, and paradise ducks breed on the island. The wetland habitat created in the 1980s supports raupo reedland and provides additional bird habitat.

Giant Wētā: These remarkable insects, among the world’s largest, have been reintroduced to Urupukapuka and can occasionally be spotted on evening walks.

The best times for birdwatching are early morning and late afternoon when birds are most active. Simply walking the tracks with ears open rewards visitors with birdsong absent from most mainland locations. The island proves that with pest control and habitat restoration, New Zealand’s unique wildlife can recover remarkably quickly.

Camping

Urupukapuka offers three DOC camping areas, providing affordable overnight options to fully experience the island’s tranquillity:

Urupukapuka Bay Campsite: The main camping area accessed via 2.5-hour walk from Otehei Bay. Basic facilities including toilets and picnic areas. Extremely affordable rates make multi-night stays accessible.

Paradise Bay and Cable Bay: More remote camping locations requiring longer walks but offering greater seclusion and pristine beach access.

Camping allows sunrise and sunset experiences, evening stargazing free from light pollution, and opportunities to experience the island’s nocturnal sounds. Campers report having beaches and tracks largely to themselves outside peak summer holidays. All standard biosecurity precautions apply – check, clean, and seal gear to prevent pest introductions.

Cultural Experiences

Book a 6-hour Māori cultural experience on Urupukapuka Island through local operators. These experiences begin with a traditional pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) and waiata (songs) at Otehei Bay, followed by cultural workshops in flax weaving, traditional Māori remedies, and poi. Guided walks provide cultural context for archaeological sites, and the day concludes with traditional Māori food. These immersive experiences connect visitors to the island’s deep cultural significance and ongoing relationship with tangata whenua.

Practical Info: Getting There & Visitor Tips

Getting There

By Ferry: Regular passenger ferries operate between Paihia/Russell and Otehei Bay year-round, with the journey taking approximately 40 minutes. Services are more frequent in summer with reduced schedules in winter. Check-in 15 minutes before departure at the Maritime Building (Paihia) or Russell Wharf. Check current schedules and book in advance during peak season.

By Private Boat: Urupukapuka is 30 minutes from Waitangi boat ramp or 10 minutes from Rawhiti, with multiple sheltered anchorages including Paradise Bay and Cable Bay. Remember you’re traveling through the Bay of Islands Marine Mammal Sanctuary – check restrictions before departure.

Facilities & Services

Otehei Bay facilities: Licensed café and bar (seasonal hours), restrooms, showers, kayak/paddleboard hire (summer only), picnic areas with tables and shade.

Camping areas: Basic toilets and picnic facilities. No showers at remote camping areas.

What’s NOT available: No shops or supplies on island – bring everything needed. Mobile coverage available but variable. No medical facilities – ensure adequate first aid supplies.

Critical Biosecurity Information

Urupukapuka’s pest-free status requires constant vigilance. Every visitor plays a vital role:

Before visiting:

• Check all bags, gear, tents, and equipment for rodents, insects (especially Argentine ants), and seeds
• Clean all footwear thoroughly – weed seeds can smother native plants
• Inspect boats and kayaks for marine pests
• No pets allowed on island (except registered assistance dogs)

If you see a pest: Call the Island Pest Detection Hotline immediately and follow up with email to Project Island Song. Even a single rat or mouse threatens years of restoration work.

The Kukupa zone of Urupukapuka Bay Campsite is currently closed due to possible Argentine ant presence – respect all closure signs.

Visitor Tips

Book ferries in advance: Summer services can fill up, especially weekends and holidays. Online booking often offers discounts of 30-40%.

Download maps before departure: Mobile coverage is variable. DOC website has detailed track maps, or collect printed maps from Russell Information Centre or at Otehei Bay trailheads.

Start walks early: Morning departures allow cooler walking conditions and more time on island before return ferries. Early morning also offers best wildlife viewing.

Bring your own food: While the café is excellent, it has limited hours outside peak season. Self-sufficient visitors have more flexibility.

Respect archaeological sites: All 66+ sites are legally protected under the Historic Places Act 1993. Look but don’t touch – stay on marked tracks near sensitive areas.

Water safety: While bays are generally safe, ocean conditions can change. Swim only at designated beaches, watch for rips, and supervise children closely.

Leave no trace: Pack out all rubbish. The island’s beauty depends on all visitors’ care.

Consider shoulder seasons: March-May and September-November offer the best balance of weather, fewer crowds, and affordable ferry availability.

Local Listings to Explore

Tours & Activities

Otehei Bay Ferry Regular ferry service from Paihia and Russell to Urupukapuka Island’s Otehei Bay. Multiple daily departures allow flexible day trips from 2-8 hours on island. Operated by Explore Group.

Urupukapuka Island Cultural Experience Full-day (6-hour) Māori cultural immersion including traditional welcome, flax weaving, poi workshops, remedies, guided archaeological walk, and traditional kai. Book through local tour operators.

Hole in the Rock Cruises Many Bay of Islands sightseeing cruises include Otehei Bay stops, combining island visits with wider bay exploration and dolphin watching.

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Accommodation on Urupukapuka

DOC Camping – Urupukapuka Bay Campsite Basic camping facilities with toilets and picnic areas. Affordable rates. Book through DOC website.

DOC Camping – Paradise Bay & Cable Bay More remote camping locations for those seeking solitude. Basic facilities. Book through DOC.

For accommodation off-island, most visitors base themselves in Paihia or Russell, both offering numerous accommodation options within easy ferry access to Urupukapuka.

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Food & Drink

Otehei Bay Café & Bar Fully licensed beachfront café serving meals, snacks, and beverages. Seasonal operating hours (typically full service December-April, weekend service winter months). Spectacular views across Bay of Islands.

For wider dining options, Paihia and Russell are just 40 minutes by ferry with numerous restaurants, cafés, and takeaway options.

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