Description
The second largest of the islands of Ipipiri, Moturua provides fantastic opportunities to experience rare birds in the wild, and offers a peaceful and exclusive-feeling experience of the islands, away from the large tour groups.
Moturua is home to many of the treasured native species that Project Island Song has reintroduced to the bay, including tīeke (North Island saddleback), kākāriki (red-crowned parakeet), pōpokotea (whitehead), toutouwai (North Island robin), and wētāpunga (giant wētā), as well as thriving populations of the iconic North Island brown kiwi and tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel).
Our private tours are for your group only, ensuring that you get the best possible wildlife discovery experience, and plenty of opportunity to ask questions of our knowledgeable guides.
Your expert guide from Project Island Song will meet you at either Russell or Paihia Wharf, where your experience will begin with a half-hour cruise out to the island, and an introduction to the rich history and culture of the bay, with the chance of spotting dolphins, penguins, and other seabirds on the way.
Over the course of the tour, your guide will lead your group along the 4.6km track that loops around the island, spotting wildlife, enjoying spectacular island views, and visiting Moturua’s four main beaches along the way.
As well as the special wildlife, Moturua is also rich in history and cultural significance. Mangahāwea Bay is believed to be one of the first known sites of human occupation in Aotearoa, with archaeological finds dating inhabitation at the site back to around 1250AD.
Moturua’s story continued as the site of dramatic encounters with early European explorers and more recently hosted Navy coastal defences during World War II.
Still have questions about our tours? You can find out more by reading our FAQs here.