Check out our easy biosecurity checklist before you go.

The wild side of
the Bay of Islands

Potential presence of Argentine ants at Urupukapuka Bay Campsite

There is a possible presence of Argentine ants (an unwanted species) in the Kukupa zone of the Urupukapuka Bay Campsite on Urupukapuka Island.

The Kukupa zone is closed to avoid any spread while the Department of Conservation prepares for possible control. Do not go into this area.

First published on 21 January 2025. Please check here for the latest update.

Find out how you can help prevent the spread of invasive species to the islands on our Biosecurity page here.

years pest free
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trees planted
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endangered species reintroduced
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The 12ks of Christmas challenge is all wrapped up!

We’ve been absolutely blown away to have 20 people take part in the 12ks of Christmas challenge this December, from Taipa to Taihape, as well as many around the Bay of Islands.

Together, these 20 local legends have:

– run and walked more than 2,166km – more than the distance from Auckland to Sydney!

– raised more than $21,700 (and counting) from 334 generous donors

– cleaned up 14km of roadside rubbish

– and much more besides

What an incredible achievement!

Massive thanks to all our participants, and to everyone who has already donated to support their amazing efforts.

If you haven’t donated yet and would like to support these superheroes, you can still donate until 31st December:

Win a once-in-a-lifetime stay at Eagles Nest worth $7,900!

Take part in our raffle fundraiser and be in to win:

  • Incredible two-night luxury stay for up to eight people, with spectacular Bay of Islands views
  • 2nd prize: Private sunset yacht charter with Cool Change Charters
  • 3rd prize: Nature-inspired light pendant by renowned designer David Trubridge
  • Tickets only $20 or 3 for $50

Returning bird song to the Bay of Islands

Project Island Song is a pest-free wildlife sanctuary covering the seven islands in the eastern Bay of Islands. The project works to restore and protect the natural eco-systems and heritage of the Bay of Islands so that it is here for everyone, forever.

Our conservation mahi

Restoring
taonga wildlife

Forest
regeneration

Inspiring
learning

Pest control &
biosecurity 

Discover Ipipiri, the eastern Bay of Islands pest-free wildlife sanctuary

Walk amongst regenerating native bush that is teeming with fascinating and rare wildlife, take in stunning sea views, listen to the birdsong, and spot reintroduced tīeke (saddleback), kākāriki (red crowned parakeet), toutouwai (North Island robin), pōpokotea (whitehead), pāteke (brown teal), and many more. With nine walking tracks suitable for all levels of ability, beautiful swimming beaches, and the chance of spotting some dolphins on the way, the islands offer a spectacular day out for the whole family.

Visiting the pest-free wildlife sanctuary?

Thanks to huge efforts from across our community and beyond, the special islands of Ipipiri are now a safe, vibrant haven where our vulnerable native species can thrive. You can help to protect them by taking some simple steps to ensure the islands remain pest-free.

Get involved

Project Island Song is a charity. We rely on the generous support of everyday kiwis, businesses, and visitors to the Bay of Islands. Do you want to protect Aotearoa’s unique native species, and ensure they are around for future generations to experience? There are many ways you can be part of securing the future for the wildlife of Ipipiri.

Click on the links below or contact us at info@projectislandsong.co.nz  

Report a pest sighting

It is vital that the islands of Ipipiri remain pest free.

If you have seen a pest on the islands, please call the island pest detection hotline immediately:

0800 362 468

Please follow up with an email to Project Island Song giving details of the sighting. Thank you.

pest@projectislandsong.co.nz

Contacting us about something else? Please email info@projectislandsong.co.nz