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

trees planted

endangered species reintroduced

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

Volunteer

Become a member

Donate

Fundraise for us

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

The 12ks of Christmas challenge!

From 1st to 12th December 2024, some of the Project Island Song team and volunteers will be taking on the 12ks of Christmas challenge to raise funds for the continued rejuvenation of Ipipiri.

We’d love you to join us! There are two versions of the challenge to choose between:

the Traditional 12ks of Christmas, where you run or walk 1km on day one, 2km on day two, up to 12km on day 12.
the Next Level 12ks of Christmas, running or walking 12km every day for 12 days straight – a total of 144km!

You can join the team, or donate and support our runners as they step into Christmas at the most run-derful time of the year!

The wild side ofthe Bay of Islands