• Members Logout

Kawau Island



Island Paradise

Kawau Island the jewel in the Hauraki Gulf


Kawau Island is one of the largest islands in the Hauraki Gulf. Kawau was named after the Kawau Paka; the white throated or little shag-cormorant which breeds on the Island. Kawau is one of the most beautiful islands of the Hauraki Gulf and one of the richest in history. 


Visiting Kawau is like stepping back in time. There are daily ferries and cruises to discover Kawau Island, such as:

  • ·         Kawau Cruises operates a Royal Mail Run Cruise, which departs daily from Sandspit. 
  • ·         Water Taxis to and from the Island are also available.
  • ·         You can book a charter cruise and explore the island with Norma Jean Charters.

Spend some time on Kawau Island:

·         Walk through the Mansion House and learn all about Sir George Governor Grey ($4 entry fee)
·         Explore the Exotic Gardens and enjoy lunch at the Mansion House Café
·        Take a walk out to scenic lookouts and to Kawau Island’s Copper Mine Ruins.

Stay at the Beach House - Kawau Island and truly enjoy the Island escape.

Kawau Island was brought in 1840 from local Maori, who battled each other over it for over 300 years. The Island was intended for farmland but copper was discovered in 1844 and a mine opened the same year. The remains of the old Coppermine engine house can be accessed by foot and the Smelting House and Roasting pits can be seen by boat/ferry.

There are a number of other islands in Kawau Bay and Hauraki Gulf. Motuora is the largest at 80 hectares. Motuora is a "taonga" (treasure), with which the "tangata whenua" (people of the land) have a special relationship.

Te Haupa (Saddle Island) is at the mouth of the Mahurangi Harbour. It is best accessed on the western side. Shearwaters nest in burrows and care should be taken when walking inland. Moturekareka is known for the remains of the Rewa which was the largest New Zealand-registered sailing ship. Its hulk was towed to the island and sunk as a breakwater, which is now popular with divers and snorkelers. 

Motutara adjoins Moturekareka and has the remains of an old wharf. It is named after the white fronted terns or kahawai birds common in the area. Motuketekete, also in Kawau Bay, is privately owned. Beehive Island, near Kawau, can be walked around in a few minutes. Oyster catchers, shore plovers, shags and gulls can be seen on the beach. The Mayne Islands comprise Rabbit Island, which is privately owned, and Takangaroa Island, a wildlife sanctuary. 

For further information:

Kawau Island Listings

  • Bon Accord Bar & Bistro Kawau Island -  Bars
    Lunch-Dinner
     
    Bon Accord Harbour Tel: (09) 422 8845

    ***CLOSED 5th June 17 - 11th October 17 *** A piece of maritime history has been given a new lease of life by a group of enterprising yachties and Kawau Island residents. The Kaw..more..

  • Kawau Cruises Kawau Island -  Activities
    -
     
    Sandspit Jetty Tel: 0800 111 616

    Super Cruise - Royal Mail Run and the Mansion House Cruise departs from the Sandspit wharf daily at 10.30am. - The Royal Mail Run is a delightfully relaxing way for you to have..more..

  • Mansion House - Kawau Island Kawau Island -  Activities
    -
     
    Mansion House Bay, Kawau Island Tel: DOC - 09 422 8882

    Mansion House is a splendid historic house, fully restored, and welcomes you into the turquoise waters of Mansion House Bay. Landscaped gardens that are over 150 years old provide q..more..

  • Norma Jean Charters Kawau Island -  Tours
    -
     
    Sandspit Wharf Tel: 09 422 2286

    Norma Jean Charters can offer you a half day or a full day to experience for either a sightseeing cruise, Island experience or fishing. All cruises depart from Sandspit Wharf. K..more..

  • The Beach House Kawau Kawau Island -  Accommodation
    Lodge
     
    Vivian Bay, Kawau Island Tel: 09 422 8850

    Kawau Island Beach House is a unique luxury lodge nestled on the edge of the crystal clear waters of Vivian Bay, Kawau Island. We offer boutique beachfront, courtyard and bush ..more..


Members Login


Username:  

Password:  


Lost password?   |   JOIN