Tiritiri Magic!

If this is your first time visiting I highly recommend taking a guided walk along the Wattle track as you will get to learn some information about the history of the island as well as the flora and fauna - plus you are quite likely to see / hear Bellbirds, Hihi, Tieke and Tui! Also, make sure you take a packed lunch - no food is available for sale on the island.

Start from the lighthouse facing towards Auckland city. Head out on the grassland toward the southern point of the island. There currently is a group of 4 Takahe that commonly hang out in this open grassy area. Loop around at the far end of the island then head back up to the lighthouse.

Come up the right hand side of the lighthouse and follow the grassy track around in front of the bach, marked with a sign saying 'link track to East Coast track." This track is full of magic views and beaches, all of which have some "must-see" features. Fisherman's Bay is particularly worth stopping the watch and having a look around - especially 'the arches' at the northern end of it.

Continue along the East Coast track soaking up the views and suprising Kakariki parrots out of the scrub. Once you reach the intersection , head right down the Northeast track. Follow this till the "Northeast bay" sign, taking the sharp switchback next to the viewing seat. This takes you down to the beach then across a wooden bridge and back up to join the trail. Carry on till you come out at the Papakura pa, the northernmost point of the island.

Head back the way you came but this time carry on down the ridge track. If you are short of time (don't forget the ferry leaves at 3:30!) you can head straight back along this road.

We are going to head along it till we turn left onto the Kawerau track. Head into the forest and take the track on the left, running through some old forest filled with Kokako, Hihi and Kereru. This track loops back up to the ridge track, take the loop back to the beginning of the Kawerau track and this time turn right. The track takes you down to Hobbs' Beach, which can be home to Tuatara and Little blue penguins. This leads you on to Hobbs' Beach track, which takes you to the wharf.

Head up the Wattle Track which takes you back up to the visitor centre, where you can get a free coffee and tea, as well as purchase some great memorabilia.